Luis Enrique Content with PSG’s Champions League Victory but Warns That the Tie is Far from Settled

Nuno Mendes’ late strike served as a deserved reward for Paris St Germain’s complete domination in their 3-1 triumph over Aston Villa during the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday night.

The Ligue 1 champions gained the lead through goals from Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with Mendes scoring two minutes into added time after Morgan Rogers’ surprising opener for Villa.

“The goal right at the end reflects the effort we put in during the previous 89-90 minutes,” stated PSG manager Luis Enrique at a post-match press conference.

Winning by two goals provides a sizeable advantage for PSG, who are known for their possession-based style, yet Luis Enrique remained focused solely on the return leg scheduled for next Tuesday.

“We’re not going to approach it with speculation. We don’t play that way. I’ve never speculated with any team, let alone with a squad of this calibre,” the Spaniard noted.

“If we aim to progress to the semi-finals, we must go there with the intent to win and to unsettle the opponent. There will be more space for us than there was here.“

PSG’s rapid transitions could work to their advantage in Birmingham, particularly since Villa will need to compensate for their current deficit and cannot afford to simply sit back.

“Aston Villa will have to be more aggressive than they were tonight, which I find appealing as long as we maintain our level of play,” said Luis Enrique.

“Once again, it’s going to be a thrilling and challenging encounter. I have no doubt it will be tough, similar to our experience at Anfield, but the concept of ‘speculation’ does not enter our mindset,” he added.

In contrast, Villa boss Unai Emery feels that the third goal does not significantly alter the scenario.

“With this goal, the situation remains largely the same because we need to secure a win next week. I believe Villa Park will be our fortress,” he commented.

“We need to feel empowered and seek out more opportunities than we had today. We were compact and disciplined, which was essential, but the final result is not ideal—it’s the worst possible outcome,” he admitted.

“Nevertheless, there are still 90 minutes to play.“