Paris Saint-Germain enters the Champions League playoff second leg with a slim 3-2 lead over Monaco at Parc des Princes.
Luis Enrique, architect of PSG’s Champions League victory last May, commended his players for rallying from a 2-0 deficit during the first leg at Stade Louis II on February 17.
Enrique Stresses Aggressive Approach
The PSG coach anticipates a fierce challenge. “Monaco begins one goal down with nothing to lose,” Enrique noted. “Expect tough spells, but the solution lies in our standard play: controlling possession and pressing relentlessly off the ball.”
He emphasized proactive intent: “We aim to claim victory, not merely safeguard the advantage.”
Defending Champs’ Path to Glory
PSG navigated playoffs against Brest last season before ousting Liverpool in the last 16, Aston Villa in quarters, and Arsenal in semis. They capped the campaign with a dominant 5-0 final win over Inter Milan in Munich.
Monaco’s Bold Outlook
Monaco manager Sébastien Pocognoli views the tie as low-risk for his side. Defender Jordan Teze echoed confidence: “PSG boasts strength, yet we stand firm. Our talented roster fuels our belief—we can compete effectively.”
Hakimi Likely to Play Despite Charges
Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi, 27, faces allegations of rape from February 2023 but firmly denies them. “I await trial calmly; the truth will surface,” he shared on social media. Officials expect his inclusion.
Spotlight on Other Ties
Real Madrid holds a 1-0 edge against Benfica, Borussia Dortmund leads Atalanta by two goals, and Juventus confronts a 5-2 deficit to Galatasaray. Bodoe/Glimt reached the last 16 for the first time via 5-2 aggregate over Inter Milan, alongside advances for Newcastle United, Atletico Madrid, and Bayer Leverkusen.
