With manager Thomas Tuchel likely coaching for his job against Atalanta BC and despite the injuries and suspension to crucial players, Paris Saint-Germain was able to come away with a dramatic 2-1 victory and clinch a spot in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
After the match, the German spoke with the RMC Sport (via Canal Supporters) relayed his comments as he reflected on the game. Then added that advancing on the club’s 50th birthday is the cherry on top.
“Today is the 50 years of the club, with a match like that and a semi-final. It’s a historic season with four titles and a semi-final. In doubt, during the match? Yes, after 85 minutes it’s 1-0, I’m realistic. I didn’t have the feeling that we weren’t going to score,” Tuchel said.
After 80 minutes, I told my assistants that if we scored a goal, I was sure we would score the second right away. It was my feeling. We had a strong game. It is absolutely deserved. If you score a late goal like that, it’s also luck, but if we watch the whole game, it’s deserved.
Finally, Tuchel discusses what he will remember the most from this win.
“We had a good match. We absolutely deserved to win. We completely controlled the second half, also physically. It was a big surprise because I was afraid of the last 20 minutes. They are super strong in these moments. But we played with more confidence. We found a good rhythm,” Tuchel said.
“The bench players were exceptional and played with good spirit. They returned this game for us. I am absolutely satisfied with this performance. For me, it is a deserved victory. The goals come late, but it’s also the quality and the mentality of this group.”
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