Paris Saint-Germain booked their spot in the Champions League semi-finals with a 5-4 aggregate win over Aston Villa, but the victory could be overshadowed by potential UEFA disciplinary action.
During Tuesday’s dramatic second leg at Villa Park, Marcus Rashford appeared to have objects thrown at him from the away end while preparing to take a corner. Though the incident wasn’t shown on television, Amazon Prime commentator Jon Champion noted “items being thrown at” the Manchester United forward.
Rashford, who assisted Ezri Konsa’s goal with a brilliant run into the box, continued playing, but the incident may now lead to consequences for PSG. Former Premier League referee Keith Hackett said a UEFA fine is likely.
“If the UEFA observer has seen this, he will report the matter, and if proven, a sanction will be imposed,” Hackett told Football Insider. “A fine is likely, rather than a ban.”
Despite leading 5-1 on aggregate after early goals from Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, PSG had to withstand a spirited Villa comeback. Goals from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn, and Konsa gave the home side hope, but they ultimately fell just short of forcing extra time.
Aston Villa could also face punishment after a plastic bottle was thrown toward referee Jose Maria Sanchez as he walked down the tunnel post-match. UEFA is expected to review both incidents as part of its disciplinary process.
