If Paris Saint-Germain wants to advance to the UEFA Champions League round of 16, they must win their final two group-stage games. The first will come on Tuesday night against Newcastle United at the Parc des Princes.
All eyes will be on manager Luis Enrique to ensure he doesn’t make any tactical mistakes like in the 4-1 loss on Matchday 2. However, former PSG player David Ginola believes beating the English club requires more than a simple tactical game plan.
Ginola spoke about the importance the supporters must play in the match. The Newcastle fans provided that extra energy that allowed them to run wild on PSG for the lopsided win. As a result, the former player hopes the Parisian supporters can play a role in the match.
“They know how Newcastle plays,” Ginola told PSG TV (h/t Paris Fans). They know they are tough. Regarding quality and technique, PSG has the weapons to beat Newcastle. Now, the public must be present. They have always been there in big moments, but now we will ask them to be even more present.
“A football club is a team, an audience, and a stadium, and for me, this set of things means that if there is unity around this match, it will be a pleasure for everyone. The 12th man isn’t just a ready-made phrase. I experienced it here, with this audience. They will have to be present at key moments. Football must be played with an audience, to be played with people who vibrate with you.”
Newcastle will arrive at Parc des Princes with injuries. Manager Eddie Howe revealed the injury status of two players after their victory over Chelsea on Saturday.
Midfielder Joe Willock, who has recently returned from several months of absence, sustained another injury during training the day before the match against Chelsea. Additionally, Sean Longstaff, who scored in the first leg against PSG, is still recovering from his injury.
Despite the break, the midfielder’s ankle problems persisted, preventing him from playing against PSG on Saturday. How Howe and Co. will handle these absences remains to be seen.
