On the other side, Enrique seemed somewhat agitated.
The "attack Chen Zhong" strategy he had meticulously planned did not achieve the expected results.
The 35-year-old veteran stood like a rock amidst the raging stream, not only resisting the onslaught but embodying the stability that anchored Real Madrid's defense.
Paris Saint-Germain's offense looked lively, yet it consistently lacked a truly lethal blow to threaten Courtois.
Chen Zhong acted as a stabilizing force, his presence empowering his younger teammates in defense.
At the final moments of the first half, Paris Saint-Germain gained an excellent opportunity.
After a breakthrough on the left flank, Dembele completed a highly threatening toe-poke shot at the edge of the small penalty area before Rudiger! Courtois swiftly reacted, blocking the ball with his leg!
Immediately afterwards, Dembele's chaotic follow-up shot deflected off the retreating Valverde and went out at the baseline!
