Luis Enrique says PSG ready to 'compete and turn the tie around'
There is an air of a big game surrounding the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final between FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. The press room at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys was packed for the appearance of PSG coach Luis Enrique and defender Achraf Hakimi on Monday.
Hakimi motivated to take win back to Paris
"We are really motivated to take the win back to Paris," said the Madrid born Moroccan international. "We are convinced we can turn things around," said coach Luis Enrique in similar vein in front of the press. After the 3-2 defeat in the Parc des Princes, the PSG boss and full back were clear about their belief that they can come back in the tie and reach the semi-finals. "We will give everything," said Hakimi, who missed the first leg due to suspension. "We are in good form and I have no doubt we will compete and we want to do it for the fans," added his coach.
Both PSG figures cast their eye over their opponents in the press conference. "We have to try to make Barça uncomfortable without the ball. Not just Raphinha's is in good form going forward, they have a lo tof dangerous players. We have to compact and dominant," said Luis Enrique.
"We won't sit back, we will pressure from the first minute. I'm sure Barça will go long to try and find space," continued the coach of the French before adding that it will be a game with goals and a good one to watch for the fans.
Praise for Xavi
Both Xavi and Pedri in their press conferences on Monday appealed for the fans at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Tuesday to provide a great atmosphere. Achraf Hakimi revealed his team were ready for such an event: "We want to show we are prepared and that the Barça fans won't affect us. On the field it will be 11 v 11."
The former Barça player and coach Luis Enrique admitted he was looking forward to the experience at Barça's temporary home. "The stadium brings back happy memories of the Olympic Games. It's a venue that is worthy of such a game," added the coach.
"I feel like a Barça fan, I will accept how they greet me," he continued before concluding with praise for his opposite number Xavi: "He is a top coach and the results bear that out."