A post-match reflection reveals disappointment after facing PSG, highlighting missed opportunities and the need for better effectiveness. The focus shifts to upcoming league matches, with hopes for a strong performance. Concerns arise about mental resilience in the Champions League, acknowledging PSG’s superior quality. Players express insights on teamwork and execution, while the impact of set pieces is noted as a decisive factor. Ultimately, PSG is recognized as a top contender for the Champions League.
Reflections on the Match Against PSG
Regrets: “Every time we face PSG, we walk away with a sense of disappointment… The first goal was unfortunate, and we had a chance to equalize before half-time during a strong phase of play. I can hardly fault my team’s spirit, but we were lacking in effectiveness in both penalty areas. Given these circumstances, it’s tough to stand up to a team of PSG’s caliber. It’s a bit disheartening; the scoreline feels harsh, but we must be honest with ourselves, PSG’s win was justified and deserved.”
Looking Ahead to Future Matches
Hope for the Return: “If we dare to dream about a 4-0 victory at the Parc (chuckles)… Along with scoring four goals, we would need to keep a clean sheet. It feels like a daunting task, but our focus is on regrouping for our upcoming match on Friday in the league. We need to deliver a strong performance to secure a positive outcome. Our goal is to make our mark in Ligue 1.”
Concerns About Mental Resilience in the Champions League: “We always strive to win our next match, primarily in Ligue 1, while also eyeing a place in the semi-finals of the Coupe de France. The more competitions we participate in, the more thrilling the season finale becomes. Having objectives is crucial, but I have mixed feelings about the end of our Champions League journey. We encountered a formidable Paris team that played exceptionally well, making it tough to be down 0-2 at half-time. We needed to be more clinical to challenge them effectively. Hence, the outcome makes sense.”
Insights from Players:
Vitinha: “We never felt our numerical advantage in midfield… With players like Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz, the difference becomes clear. Competing at such a high level, against teams like Barcelona, emphasizes the quality of these players. I mentioned to Luis Enrique what a pleasure it must be to coach this talented squad.”
Ludovic Ajorque: “He embodies the team’s spirit, though he hasn’t received much recognition… We played with courage, and Ludo deserved at least one goal. Ultimately, it comes down to executing the right actions, making the correct passes, and maintaining control; we fell short in those areas tonight. It’s unfortunate, but that’s the harsh reality of high-level sports.”
Struggles Against Elite Teams: “Indeed, there’s a rationale behind it; they are a better team than us, despite the possibility of achieving a good result in a single match. We could have entered half-time level… We had a strong start to the second half but failed to capitalize. We conceded two avoidable goals: the first due to a quick loss of possession, and the second where we should have been more aggressive in stopping the play earlier.”
PSG as Favorites in the Champions League: “In my opinion, they are definitely among the top four or five contenders for the Champions League. I don’t see them as inferior to Barcelona; they have much to offer. Their collective strength has improved from last year. They excel in positional and transitional play and can adapt to any situation. To win, you need a great team and a stroke of luck; time will tell what lies ahead for them. But as of now, they aren’t qualified (smiles)…”
Impact of Set Pieces: “I had mentioned the need for determination, and we showed that by hitting the bar from a corner. Such details can change the course of a match… It’s those small aspects that create significant differences. While Paris maintained control, we managed to challenge them at times. They are incredibly talented but also remarkably solid.”
Comments gathered during a press conference.