PSG was confronted with a large number of hard opponents during the 2024–25 season – from Atlético Madrid, Arsenal and Manchester City to Liverpool and Inter Milan – but the team that defended them best, according to Luis Enrique, was Botafogo. The surprise came to the World Championship of Club, where the Brazilian side surprised the Champions League holders with a 1-0 win.
Defensive Display beats European Champions
The Spanish manager praised the tactical approach of the South -American club and called it the most effective defensive representation that his team had encountered all year round. Despite PSG's dominance, they were unable to dismantle in the low block of Botafogo and they only succeeded in two shots on goal. “I think Botafogo today was the team that defended us the best all season,” said Luis Enrique in the press conference after the match and responded to a question from As. “They were excellent – very efficient, very solid. They had opportunities to break on the counter and it gave them a big boost. I think they defended very well. We are used to playing against low blocks, but it is never easy. Botafogo has done it great and I congratulate them.”
The defeat stopped a point of six consecutive victories for the French champions, including their 3-0 triumph over Inter Milan in the Champions League final and a commander debut in the Club World Cup against Atlético Madrid. Yet Enrique was not completely surprised. “It was difficult from the start – and that is normal. Playing against us gives our opponents extra motivation. We have to improve. That is what we said at the start of the week, and it is normal to encounter problems.”
PSG is still aimed at CWC title
The manager insisted that the team would regroup. “We have to analyze what we have done well and see what we can improve. Nobody expected this result, but our team is built to get through tough moments.”
PSG is now focusing their focus on the last group stage match against Seattle Sounders on Monday, June 23 at 2:00 PM et. Both PSG and Atlético are on three points, with Botafogo leading the group on six. Only the top two continue to the knock -out phase.
“If there is one team that can turn things around, it is ours,” Enrique said. “In terms of energy and attitude, the team was solid – but we were not sharp. Botafogo had opportunities to fight a big goal and scored by Igor Jesus, which gave them enormous faith. Credit to them.”
The competition was one of the two surprise victories for American teams on European parties who raised questions about whether the gap between the continents closes. Enrique rejected every conversation about a growing gap. “A gorge? Between Europe and South America? I don't know where that idea comes from. Today Botafogo won, they played a great game and I congratulated them. I don't care who deserved it more.”
With 90 minutes left and everything to play, PSG knows that their next game is decisive. “It's a tough competition. The next competition will be the key – and if we continue, that will also follow all those who follow.”