Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), fresh off a treble-winning season, faced an unexpected hurdle in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Their quest for an early knockout stage spot was dramatically halted by a determined Botafogo squad, leaving manager Luis Enrique openly frustrated after a narrow defeat in the Club World Cup, Footballrover reports.
The decisive moment came in the 36th minute when Igor Jesus, playing for last year’s Copa Libertadores champions, netted the lone goal.
PSG’s Club World Cup challenge: Enrique’s disappointment
This single strike was enough to seal the fate of the match, as the Rio de Janeiro-based Botafogo delivered a masterclass in resilient defence, a stark contrast to what PSG often encounters.
Despite their recent success in the Champions League final with a stunning 5-0 victory over Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain found themselves unable to break through Botafogo’s determined backline.
This unexpected defeat in the Club World tournament dashed their hopes of being the first team to secure a place in the Round of 16.
The match, described by Enrique as “very tight“, highlighted the intensity and motivation opponents often bring when facing a powerhouse like Paris Saint-Germain.
After the defeat: PSG aims for improvement
Speaking to the media of the Ligue 1 side, Luis Enrique expressed his clear disappointment.
“Obviously, we are frustrated with the result,” he stated. “It was a very tight game; Botafogo defended very well, like almost no team in Ligue 1 or the Champions League.”
He acknowledged the inherent difficulty of such matches, emphasising that facing his side naturally motivates opposing teams to perform at their peak.
However, Enrique reiterated the team’s ongoing message: “We need to be better.” And this has been a constant theme for the squad.
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