While much attention has been lavished on the attacking prowess of Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning European champions, it was their sheer resilience that propelled them into the semi-finals of the Club World Cup on Saturday.
Pushed to their limits, Luis Enrique’s team secured a 2-0 victory over Bayern Munich in Atlanta, finishing the match with just nine players following late red cards to Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez.
PSG’s goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, made a series of crucial saves that played a pivotal role in the French club’s progression to the final four, where they are set to face Kylian Mbappe’s former club, Real Madrid.
Captain Marquinhos emphasised that their mentality was crucial in adding to their trophy collection.
“This was a match that taught us valuable lessons, pushing us out of our comfort zone,” the Brazilian defender shared with the media.
“It highlighted our group’s mentality. We always discuss how challenging it is to win, and how much tougher it is to maintain that winning streak.”
“This is our current mindset: to show our continual hunger and desire to reach further heights.”
Luis Enrique remarked that the team’s progress over the past year has been instrumental in developing their resilience.
“It stems from the experiences we’ve shared throughout the season; we’ve endured together… exhibiting genuine team spirit,” the Spaniard noted.
“Whether we win, lose, or draw, our attitude and actions remain unwavering.”
PSG famously claimed the Champions League title for the first time in their history back in May, navigating a challenging campaign that included a penalty shootout victory over Liverpool in the last 16.
Donnarumma emerged as the saviour as they battled hard at Anfield in March, defeating Arne Slot’s squad, who were among the tournament favourites.
“We approached our game in Liverpool with the intent of achieving a positive result – that takes a solid mindset. And once again, even with two players off the field, we rallied together on the pitch, defending as one and supporting each other,” Marquinhos reflected.
“After the first red card, I observed my teammates were fired up to defend collectively.”
“We communicated clearly, affirming that we’d defend fiercely and ensure the game was ours until the final whistle.”
“I had full confidence that we would prevail – our squad is remarkably strong in moments like these… regardless of the circumstances, we are mentally prepared.”
Indeed, while down to nine men and ahead thanks to Desire Doue’s goal, PSG not only held firm against Bayern but also extended their lead through Ousmane Dembele’s strike.
‘At all times’
The Parisians also showcased their mettle against Arsenal in the Champions League semi-finals, digging in to secure a gritty 1-0 win in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium.
They even found themselves trailing 2-0 in the Coupe de France semi-final against Dunkerque, only to bounce back and claim a thrilling 4-2 victory on their way to lifting the trophy.
Luis Enrique praised his squad’s “great capacity” to handle challenging situations following that Cup victory in April, again commending their resolve in overcoming Bayern.
“This team embodies resilience; our supporters share that quality,” Luis Enrique stated.
“We are a team that’s prepared to compete at all times, regardless of the outcome.”
Marquinhos further credited the former Spain and Barcelona coach for significantly enhancing the team’s mental fortitude.
While past PSG teams were renowned for their star-studded rosters, they often lacked the grit and determination necessary to triumph in crucial moments.
“Our coach is the linchpin; he’s instilled his philosophy and mentality into the team from the very start,” said Marquinhos.
“His focus has been on making us mentally robust, ready for any scenario that may unfold during a match…
“We’ve navigated through everything this season, enduring tough phases where we didn’t achieve the results we desired, even when we performed well but failed to finish.”
Bayern manager Vincent Kompany reflected on the harsh scrutiny faced by Luis Enrique after the Germans narrowly defeated PSG 1-0 in the Champions League group stage last November.
However, having weathered numerous challenges and subsequently dominating European football—culminating in a decisive victory over Inter Milan in what was one of the most lopsided finals in the competition’s history—few would bet against them achieving global supremacy.
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Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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