PSG coach Galtier reflects on frustrating loss against Bayern Munich

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By Martin Graham | 10th Mar 2023

Paris Saint-Germain manager Christophe Galtier has claimed that his side’s frustrating loss would have not happened had they scored first.

The Parisians will continue their hunt for their first UEFA Champions League title next season after falling to Bayern Munich in their round of 16 tie by a 3 – 0 aggregate scoreline.

Their hosts left it late to claim the victory, with Serge Gnabry’s 90th minute striker proving to be the tie breaker. It was the first time both teams met since the 2020/21 quarter finals which PSG won on away goals. This time, however, it was a comprehensive victory for the Bavarians.

Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe could not muster much for PSG against the resolute defence of the German Bundesliga champions and in the end, the team was punished with a knockout.

Galtier admits to being frustrated by the outcome of the match but expressed strong beliefs that his team needed to score first because he thinks that they would defend their lines well enough.

“It is a big disappointment. Unfortunately we have to digest it and accept it,” Galtier told broadcaster Canal Plus after PSG lost 2-0 to Bayern in Germany to lose the tie 3-0 on aggregate.

“We have to carry on in the league. Everyone is disappointed, not least me. Even if we had lots of difficulties in the first leg we placed a lot of hope in the second leg.

“We had a really good spell when we created chances. We were competing with our opponents and were on top. Unfortunately we couldn’t take the chances we had,” he said.

“Then in the second half we conceded a really stupid goal. At this level you need to be a bit more clear-headed.

“Obviously we were under pressure from Bayern. At that point you need to not be ashamed to play long, to break out of the press.

“And obviously after an hour when you go behind it becomes very difficult.

“I don’t know if it is a lesson we need to learn but it is frustrating and disappointing. The game would definitely have been different had we scored first.”

This is the fifth time in seven seasons that PSG is exiting the competition at the round of 16 stage. They do not inspire much confidence anymore as far as the competition goes, even with the stars on their roster.

For Lionel Messi, it also marks the continuation of his abusive relationship with Bayern Munich. They are the side who have tormented him the most in football and even at PSG, things have not changed.

The French champions will now turn their focus to Saturday when they travel to Brest as they attempt to solidify their hold on the Ligue 1 title.