On Sunday, Paris Saint-Germain lost 3-0 to Chelsea in the final of the Club World Cup. A disappointing defeat, but also understandable after the historic season just completed by the breathless Parisians. Former PSG player Mohamed Sissoko (2011-2013) spoke to L’Equipe about this setback.
Sissoko “a PSG with or without Willian Pacho, it’s not the same thing.”
“Chelsea were stronger and Paris came up short, but this match came down to freshness, not quality. They’re paying for the accumulation of the season, and physicality is essential for the style of play.
And a PSG with or without Willian Pacho is not the same thing. Chelsea were provocative, yes, but PSG didn’t need that to win titles this season.
If you play the same match again with mental and physical freshness, I think PSG spread them out ten times over.”
Several conditions led to PSG’s complete collapse in this match. After seven months of intensive competition, success in the Champions League and a fine run in the Club World Cup, PSG failed to take the final step. Obviously, Pacho’s absence weighed heavily on the defence.
But physical and mental fatigue had a considerable impact on the Parisians’ performance. Given PSG’s achievements this season, there are no regrets. It should be remembered that this team is still under construction and now needs a rest before the European Supercup against Tottenham on August 13.
