Luis Enrique Unveils PSG’s Determined Mindset Before Clash Against Dortmund

Paris Saint-Germain are gearing up to host Borussia Dortmund for the second leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match. With a 1-0 deficit from the first leg last week, the Parisian club are determined to turn the tables and secure a win.

For the Parisian attack, PSG are looking to deploy Ousmane Dembélé and Kylian Mbappé on the wings. It’s been reported that Gonçalo Ramos will take on the No. 9 role, with the Ligue 1 side placing their faith in the Portugal international to find the back of the net.

Understanding that they need to come from behind again in these final 90 minutes, manager Luis Enrique spoke to reporters on Monday and revealed the mindset he wants his players to have out on the pitch. 

“The goal isn’t just to win by two goals, but simply to come out on top,” Enrique said (h/t Culture PSG). “If you fixate on that, you’re already aiming too far ahead. Our focus is squarely on scoring. Even if we score in the 90th minute, it’ll even the playing field and keep the game going. 

“What matters most is getting that first goal and securing the win. It’s a familiar scenario in football. You can bag two goals in a blink, but beware, you can also concede. So, it’s vital to give it your all and keep sharp in both attack and defense. 

“Sure, letting in a goal isn’t ideal, but we need to keep our cool, like we did against Barça (4-1, 2-3 in the first leg). If we hit two quick goals, the pressure will be on the other side to react. Expect a match akin to the first leg, intense and played at a top-notch level, with or without the ball. It’ll be a tough battle for both teams.” 

The French giants will have the home crowd behind them as they attempt to punch their ticket to the Champions League final in London at Wembley Stadium.