体坛英语新闻：PSG beat Liverpool, keep knockout qualification alive in Champions League

PARIS, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Paris Saint-Germain stayed in contention for a spot in the Champions League knockout stage with a 2-1 home victory over Liverpool in Group C here on Wednesday.

PSG had trailed one point down from Napoli and Liverpool on third prior to Wednesday's clash, and a defeat at the Parc des Princes could result in an early elimination from the European elite club competition for the Ligue 1 powerhouse.

However, PSG demonstrated themselves under huge pressure with first-half goals from Juan Bernat and Neymar. James Milner pulled one back for Liverpool, who failed to make further response in the second half.

PSG welcomed back their superstars Neymar and Kylian Mbappe, who had suffered injuries on international duty.

The pair brought back familiar attacking creativeness to PSG, who deservedly went ahead in the 13th minute.

After Mbappe's cross was cleared by Liverpool defender, Bernat collected the ball before firing a low shot at target.

PSG were further beyond reach in the 37th minute. Mbappe's left-flank pass was met by Edinson Cavani, whose attempt was blocked by goalkeeper Alisson, but Neymar was on position to slot home.

PSG were made to sweat a bit just before the break, as Angel Di Maria tripped Saido Mane inside the box, and Milner coolly converted the ensuing penalty.

Another good chance for PSG arrived in the 70th minute, but a powerful header from full-back Marquinhos on Neymar's corner was saved by Alisson.

In the other group match, Napoli breezed past Red Star Belgrade 3-1 at home.

Napoli sit atop Group C with one match remaining, one point ahead of PSG. Liverpool slump to third, trailing Napoli by three points. All three teams keep their hope of advancing to last 16 alive.

Liverpool are desperate for a home win over Napoli in the final group match on Dec. 11, while PSG will visit Red Star Belgrade.