Luis Enrique Claims “Both Teams Deserved to Qualify” as PSG Edge Liverpool in Champions League Thriller

Paris St Germain manager Luis Enrique hailed his team’s resilience after an intense battle against Liverpool in the Champions League last-16. Despite trailing after the first leg, PSG delivered a dramatic 4-1 penalty shootout victory at Anfield on Tuesday, securing their place in the quarterfinals.  

Speaking after the match, Luis Enrique acknowledged the strength of both sides and the high stakes of the encounter. “Both of the teams deserved to go to the next phase. They played better than us here, but I think my team at Anfield, in a special stadium, showed great personality and character,” he said.  

The Ligue 1 leaders displayed remarkable composure under pressure, overcoming a high-intensity Liverpool side that had been widely considered favourites to advance. The Reds, who topped the league phase table, looked poised to progress, but PSG’s determination turned the tie in their favor.  

“When the draw told us about the match against Liverpool and PSG, both managers thought the same—one of the best matches you can watch in Europe,” Luis Enrique added. “I think both teams were great. We are happy and confident to go to the next phase.”  

Liverpool, the 2019 Champions League winners, fought hard but were ultimately undone by PSG’s precision in the penalty shootout. The French giants, who reached the 2020 final but have yet to win the competition, will now look ahead to the quarterfinals with renewed confidence.  

Former England striker Alan Shearer was among those who praised PSG’s nerve and execution in the decisive moments. “You’ve seen four perfect penalties under extreme pressure, you’ve got to give PSG big credit,” Shearer said on Amazon Prime.  

“The disappointment of losing that first game and playing really, really well and coming back to Anfield, soaking up pressure, then taking it to extra time and penalties and seeing those four perfect penalties—they’ve really put in a magnificent effort over the two games, and they’ll say they deserve to go through.”  

PSG’s victory marks a significant step in their pursuit of European glory, while Liverpool’s exit leaves them to focus on domestic competitions. As the Champions League progresses, all eyes will be on the French side to see if they can finally claim the elusive trophy.