PSG Must Dominate Possession To Neutralise Liverpool's Counterattacking Threat In Champions League

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Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) must assert their style against Liverpool to counter the Reds' swift attackers in the Champions League's last 16, according to Luis Enrique. PSG will host the Premier League leaders at Parc des Princes for the first leg of this eagerly awaited European clash on Wednesday.

PSG have recently found their rhythm after a slow start to the 2024-25 season. They have won 18 out of their last 20 competitive matches, drawing the other two. The French champions have scored 21 goals in their last four games and advanced through the Champions League play-offs with a 10-0 aggregate win over Brest.

The team has achieved five consecutive victories in the Champions League. A sixth win would mark their best streak in Europe’s top club competition since 1994-95. However, they face Liverpool, who are currently favoured by Opta's supercomputer to win the Champions League. Liverpool has a 19% chance of becoming European champions for a seventh time, while PSG's probability stands at 10%.

Luis Enrique highlighted Liverpool's strength in counterattacking, describing them as one of Europe's best teams in that aspect. "They have three fighter jets in attack," he noted, stressing the importance of PSG imposing their game to avoid suffering from Liverpool's transitions.

Among Liverpool’s formidable attackers is Mohamed Salah, who has netted 30 goals across all competitions this season and provided 22 assists. His total of 52 goal involvements surpasses any other player from Europe’s top five leagues by at least 12, with Barcelona’s Raphinha trailing at 40 (24 goals, 16 assists).

PSG winger Ousmane Dembele ranks joint-seventh on this list with 26 goals and six assists. Despite not detailing areas where PSG might excel over Liverpool, Luis Enrique believes his team will be dangerous if they can control possession.

Possession as Key Strategy

"We will need the ball," said Luis Enrique. He acknowledged that while PSG may not match Liverpool physically, they are among Europe's best teams in terms of possession. This approach could be crucial for PSG as they prepare for a challenging contest.

PSG enter this match without injury concerns, and the tie will conclude at Anfield next Tuesday. Luis Enrique remarked that the outcome of the first leg won't decide who advances: "If we were to lose at home and then qualify at Anfield, of course I would take that."