Following a hard-fought encounter in the Champions League semi-finals, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) manager Luis Enrique expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging the challenges his team faced in their 1-0 defeat to their German opponents Borussia Dortmund.
“It’s football. Very often it is marvellous and other times it is like this. We would have preferred to be in a different situation, but I think when you look at it, it was a very even game,” Luis Enrique remarked in an interview with broadcaster Canal Plus, reflecting on the narrow loss that saw Niclas Fuellkrug’s solitary goal secure victory for the opposition.
Despite dominating possession and recording more attempts on goal, PSG was thwarted by inaccurate finishing and, perhaps, a stroke of misfortune. The French champions hit the woodwork twice in a single move during the second half, epitomizing their frustration.
“Nobody ever said it was going to be easy in the semi-finals of the Champions League. The boys in the dressing room are a bit down. We had one chance where we hit both posts,” Luis Enrique lamented, acknowledging the disappointment among his players.
Looking ahead to the return leg in Paris, Luis Enrique remained optimistic about his team’s prospects, acknowledging the formidable challenge ahead but expressing confidence in their ability to bounce back.
“It is just the fifth game PSG have lost all season, and the first time they have been beaten under Luis Enrique without scoring,” the report noted, highlighting the rarity of the defeat.
Despite the setback, PSG can draw inspiration from past triumphs, having previously overcome Dortmund and Barcelona in dramatic fashion. With a history of successful comebacks and strong performances at home, PSG remains determined to turn the tie in their favor.
However, concerns emerged over defender Lucas Hernandez, who sustained an injury during the match. Luis Enrique admitted that the situation “doesn’t look at all positive,” raising uncertainties about Hernandez’s availability for future fixtures.
As PSG prepares for the crucial second leg, captain Marquinhos emphasized the importance of capitalizing on scoring opportunities and harnessing the energy of their supporters to mount a comeback.
While the defeat in Germany serves as a setback for PSG, the team remains resolute in their pursuit of Champions League glory, setting the stage for an intriguing clash in the return leg at the Parc des Princes.
