Both teams deserved to go through at Anfield, says Luis Enrique

Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique thought that both Liverpool and his party earned a place in the quarterfinals of the Champions League after their fine victory in Anfield in the round of 16 to Tuesday.

The French side turned the draw in the way, after he had lost 1-0 to a Harvey Elliott goal in the Parc des Princes last week, eventually won 4-1 for penalties after a 1-0 win after extra time.

“Both teams deserved to go to the next phase, they play better than we do here, but I think my team in Anfield, in a special stadium, showed great personality and character,” said Luis Enrique.

“We tried to play our best, but it was difficult because they are so intense. Both teams deserved to qualify. The character and personality, even when we shoot at the penalty shootout, they showed a great character. I think it clearly shows the team that we are.”

PSG is currently unbeaten at the top of Ligue 1 this season and look destined for a 10th league title in 12 seasons, but they have never won the Champions League.

Liverpool was considered favorites to make the last eight after the table in the competition phase and then winning the first stage 1-0.

“When the draw told us about the match against Liverpool and PSG, both managers thought the same thing, one of the best matches you can watch in Europe,” said Luis Enrique.

“I think both teams were great. We are happy and confident to go to the next phase.”

PSG vs Liverpool over two legs. pic.twitter.com/9KNP9J4K6W

– Opta Analyst (@Optaanalyst) March 12, 2025

PSG also earned a lot of praise from experts during and after the competition, including former English striker Alan Shearer, who worked for Amazon Prime.

“You have seen four perfect fines under extreme pressure, you have to give PSG large credit,” he said.

“The disappointment to lose that first game and really, very well playing and coming back to Anfield and to take pressure and then to bring extra time and fines and see those four perfect punishments.

“They really made a wonderful effort about the two games and they will say they deserve to continue.”