PSG manager Luis Enrique has urged his players not to underrate Brest in their Champions League playoff clash on Tuesday.
Both French clubs will meet in the first leg of the Champions League second-round playoff clash in Guingamp on Tuesday.
Enrique’s PSG has been on a good run of form lately, winning nine out of their last 10 matches in all competitions, including a 5-2 drubbing of Brest two weeks ago.
PSG finished 15th in the first round, while Brest ended up in the 19th position on the log, winning four, drawing one and losing three.
The former Barcelona player said PSG must approach the clash with full focus because of the unpredictable nature of the knockout stages.
Enrique said, “They were one of the best teams in France last season. Their reward was playing in the Champions League, and they qualified with impressive performances.
“In football terms, I don’t know what will happen on Tuesday. We are all aware of the importance of this match and what it means for the club.
“The best-playing team doesn’t always win. Brest can score goals against us, and we want to play as well as possible and prepare in the best way.
“We are aware that this is a different two-legged tie because it’s between two French clubs, and only one will go through. We are favourites, but football is full of surprises.
“The Champions League is an important competition for us. It’s two matches of 90 minutes. We have to win; we have no choice. We are focused on trying to win.”
Ousmane Dembélé has been on an impressive run of form for PSG with eight goals in his last three matches, including a stunning hat trick against Stuttgart.
Enrique showered encomiums on the French star for his rich vein of form in recent games.
He said, “He is brilliant at finding space and finishing in one touch. It’s great to be part of a team where these qualities come together.
“We all knew Ousmane as a winger. Now he can start on the flank or in a more central position, which is a real advantage. His movement inside the box has been remarkable—something you’d expect from a number nine.”
PSG will be hoping to end their Champions League drought this season, the only trophy they are yet to win under the Qatar Sports Investment ownership.
