PSG: ‘A tricky match’ – Luis Enrique’s warning ahead of Liverpool

Having secured a convincing 2-0 victory in the first leg, Paris Saint-Germain approach Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Liverpool (9pm) with caution and determination. Beware of the trap.

18 shots to 3, 74% possession against 26%, and above all a 2-0 scoreline: the first leg gave an undeniable impression of Paris Saint-Germain’s superiority over Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Despite the gap, the Parisians are approaching the second leg, on Tuesday at Anfield, with caution. “We need to stay focused and work for one another. This is a key moment in the season,” right-back Achraf Hakimi reminded the press at a press conference.

At Anfield, a different game

Luis Enrique is not going in without any apprehension. The context of the match has the feel of a trap, according to the Parisian manager. “When you play at home in front of your fans, it’s easier; you’re stronger. We know how difficult it is to play in that stadium, but that’s a motivation for us. It’s a tricky match because nobody sees the difference between the two teams, but you’ll see it tomorrow,” warned the Asturian.

Despite the special atmosphere at Anfield, which will be behind the Reds, and the two-goal lead at kick-off, the reigning champions do not intend to spend the entire match on the back foot. “It will be very different from the first leg. We need to know how to handle the difficult moments and then play our game as usual, playing our football, and not come here just defending the result,” added the former Spain manager.

Paris ready to suffer

Luis Enrique particularly emphasised two key points for navigating this match successfully. The first is the start of the match, even if it won’t be decisive. “Normally, how you start the match can be important. Although, in modern football, the score can change after just five minutes. It’s important to start the match well, but that won’t be the key to the match,” he cautioned.

And the second is his team’s ability to dig deep during difficult periods. “There will be tough moments, but all the players are motivated and, normally, we have experience in this type of match, and I’m sure we’ll be ready to dig deep,” assured the Parisian coach. In any case, PSG have everything they need to reach the semi-finals for the third consecutive year.