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Alex KirklandESPN FC
Paris Saint-Germain Coach Mauricio Pochettino said his team drew with Real Madrid “could be a Champions League final” with the quality of the players involved and supportive Lionel Messi to play a “fundamental role”.
Tuesday’s first leg at the Parc des Princes will see Messi and Kylian Mbappe – who Madrid tried to sign last year and hope to land this summer – face off against the LaLiga giants, despite the former Madrid captain Sergio Ramos missed through injury.
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Ramos is one of a number of former Real Madrid players currently playing for PSG, with the goalkeeper Keylor Navasright behind Achraf Hakimi and midfielder Angel Di Maria all hope to play against their old team.
“It could be a Champions League final with these names, players and quality,” Pochettino said at Monday’s pre-match press conference. “We respect Real Madrid, they are one of the biggest clubs in the world.
“Their 13 Champions League titles tell you it’s not just about the player or the coach, it’s about the strength and internal structure of a club. PSG have been waiting to win this title. for over 50 years. We are challengers. We” are trying to build a team to get closer to that dream. “
The two clubs have clashed off the pitch over Madrid’s pursuit of Mbappe, with PSG sporting director Leonardo admitting the club are “displeased with Madrid’s behaviour” as they try to reach an agreement in Last week of the summer transfer market.
Both teams lead their domestic leagues, with PSG 13 points at the top of Ligue 1, while Madrid have a four-point advantage at the top of LaLiga.
“[Real Madrid] are a great team, they always raise their level in key moments of the season,” Pochettino said on Monday. There were times when they didn’t play well in the league, but in the end they won the Champions League. They have companionship and competitiveness. “
The coach says Messi – the top scorer for PSG in this season’s Champions League with five goals – can help the French club take the next step in Europe.
“In decisive matches, on important nights, [Messi’s] Talent and experience will play a fundamental role, both individually and collectively,” he said.
Ancelotti agrees with Pochettino’s assessment that both sides have enough talent to reach the Champions League final.
“We have all the confidence in the world. It’s a tough opponent who wants to be like us to win this competition, this could be a final and nobody should be surprised. “, said Ancelotti.
“We are very excited about taking down an opponent that can compete for the Champions League.”
