Enrique Was Not Sure PSG Could Win 2-0 Against Sociedad

Bradley Barcola striker celebrates a goal that solidifies Paris Saint-Germain's 2-0 lead over Real Socidead in the Champions League. (X/@PSG_Inside)

JAKARTA - Paris Saint-Germain had to work hard before winning 2-0 against Real Sociedad in the first match of the Champions League last 16. Even coach Luis Enrique was not sure his team could beat Sociedad even though PSG played at home at the Parc des Princes Stadium, Thursday, February 15, 2024 in the morning WIB.

Sociedad put up a tight fight throughout the first half. They press so well that PSG had difficulties.

The unconvincing appearance in the first half made Enrique wary of PSG unable to win the match. This is clearly a loss because PSG played at home.

Enrique is worried that players will be burdened with non-technical problems that cannot get through the round of 16 in the Champions League.

However, the psychological burden was lifted after Kylian Mbappe broke the deadlock by breaking into Sociedad's defense to score.

"If we watch the first round, it seems difficult to imagine we can win 2-0. We already know the level of Sociedad's game. They finished as group winners and have played together for years. In my opinion, they are indeed a spectacular team," said Enrique.

Enrique, who successfully handled Barcelona, admitted that PSG had been under pressure from Sociedad.

"Sociedad must admit that he did a very good pressing. This makes it difficult for us to face them," he said.

Furthermore, the former coach of the Spanish national team said, "Luckily in the second half, we played better. This made us confident. In the second half, we were definitely better than Sociedad."

After winning one goal, PSG managed to strengthen their lead through young Bradley Barcola striker. The goal made PSG win 2-0 at least able to smooth Parisiens' tutoring steps to the quarter-finals.

Hanya, Enrique tak terlena. Pasalnya PSG masih melakukan laga kedua di kandang Sociedad. Meski Sociedad butuhkan kemenangan tiga gol untuk membalik keadaan, namun Enrique tetap waspada. PSG sendiri cukup mencari hasil gambar untuk menghilangkan rivalnya.

"You can imagine how they will put pressure on the match at San Sebastian [Sociedad brand]. We will face a more difficult match," he said.

Meanwhile, captain Marguinhos admitted the team had difficulties in the first half. Even the players found out that the coach looked frustrated because of PSG's bad game.

"We then discussed during the break of the match. The coach did look sad and disappointed. But then he gave instructions and input to be implemented in the second half. It turned out that his instructions were going well," said Marquinhos.

"This victory means a lot to us. But we are only halfway through," he said.

PSG played their second match against Sociedad at the Reale Arena Stadium, San Sebastian, March 6, 224 in the morning WIB.