PSG beat Barcelona 4-2 as Hernández’s exchange with Yamal draws attention

In Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory over Barcelona, Lucas Hernández made an impact at both ends of the pitch and became part of a conspicuous exchange with Lamine Yamal. PSG won 4-2 after the French defender helped put his side ahead and then provoked the Spanish forward with his celebration. Hernández, a former Bayern Munich star, had also started at full-back.

The defining moment of his match came in the 72nd minute. Hernández met a corner from Désiré Doué with a header to put PSG 2-1 ahead. That attacking contribution came alongside a defensive display that made life difficult for Yamal. Before the match, Barcelona’s star had recorded 20 goal contributions in 12 official games: 10 goals and 10 assists.

Hernández’s place in the side followed the absence of the Portuguese player Nuno Mendes. Originally recruited as part of Paris Saint-Germain’s defensive plans, Hernández took his opportunity and managed to limit the danger posed by Yamal, who had been performing well this season. His goal turned an already strong defensive showing into a notable performance at both ends of the pitch.

But it was the celebration that added another layer to their duel. Hernández went over to Yamal, touched his shoulder in a provocative gesture and walked away laughing. The Barcelona player responded with an angry stare. The image spread across social media: a video posted on X passed 4 million views, while some users described Yamal’s look as “murderous.”

The incident also drew criticism of Hernández. Some supporters questioned why he had not been shown a yellow card, while others considered the celebration excessive. Yamal’s “look of death” also fuelled reactions and headlines about the exchange, which became one of the evening’s most talked-about moments.

Yamal’s goal could not prevent Barcelona from losing. The 4-2 result was also the Catalan side’s first defeat in Paris this season. The clash between the two players thus left its mark on a match whose outcome had firmly swung Paris Saint-Germain’s way.