Paris Saint-Germain lost 3-2 to FC Barcelona in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match on Wednesday at the Parc des Princes. The Parisians’ less-than-stellar defensive performance prompted Nuno Mendes to speak with Canal Plus after the defeat.
The French team conceded three goals, and the Portugal international noted how Barcelona found success against their defending.
“These are the results that matter,” Mendes told the French media outlet. “We were a bit disconnected from the game, and that’s when they scored. We have a week to work before the return match. The team is good, calm. It’s not over yet.”
Nuno Mendes (C+) : « Ce sont les résultats qui comptent, on a un peu été déconnectés du match et c'est là qu'ils ont marqué. On a une semaine pour travailler avant le match retour. L'équipe est bien, tranquille. Ce n'est pas fini. »
— Paris_SGINFOS (@Paris_SGINFOS) April 10, 2024
Despite the result, Mendes highlights that the team remains confident they can turn the situation around when the scene shifts to Spain. The team did overturn a 1-0 situation before the defensive mistakes allowed the La Liga team to score two unanswered goals.
“The team performed well in the match,” Mendes added. They managed to do what was required. Unfortunately, we ended up with a defeat. But we have another game to turn things around.”
Nuno Mendes (C+): « L'équipe a été bien dans le match. Elle a réussi à faire ce qu'on devait, malheureusement on ressort avec une défaite. Mais on a un autre match pour renverser la tendance. »
— Paris_SGINFOS (@Paris_SGINFOS) April 10, 2024
PSG’s path to the semifinals hinges on another outstanding display from Kylian Mbappé in Barcelona, underscoring his crucial role. A solid defense is also imperative. Their Champions League journey could conclude next week if these elements don’t align.
It will be interesting to see how the final 90 minutes play out.
