Coupe de France: Luis Enrique, Presnel Kimpembe React to PSG’s Win Over Le Mans | OneFootball

Paris Saint-Germain earned a 2-0 victory over Le Mans in the Coupe de France Round of 16 on Tuesday night at Stade Marie-Marvingt.

The opening goal came in the 25th minute, following a costly mistake in Le Mans’ build-up play. After receiving the ball from his goalkeeper, Alexandre Lauray attempted a short pass, but Gonçalo Ramos intercepted it. The ball quickly found its way to Désiré Doué, who took control and coolly slotted it past goalkeeper Ewan Hatfout with a right-footed shot.

Bradley Barcola put the game beyond doubt in the 71st minute. He raced past the defenders to collect a long pass, cut inside the box, and fired a powerful shot into the top corner from a tight angle, beating the keeper.

The match also marked the return of PSG defender Presnel Kimpembe, who had been sidelined since February 2023.

What are PSG saying after advancing to the next round?

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After the match, PSG manager Luis Enrique and Kimpembe spoke to the club’s official website. Here’s what the Spanish tactician had to say about the result:

“It was a typical Coupe de France match, with a dangerous and unpredictable opponent. There are many things we can’t control. But I think we played a good match. We’re qualified for the quarter-finals, we were able to give some players playing time and rest the others, so we can only be happy tonight. Presnel’s return? It’s very good news. I think he’s happy. It’s a special moment for him, and when we’re all together, everything is easier.”

This is what Kimpembe had to say about the contest that saw him make his return to the pitch:

“It wasn’t an easy match. We go home with the victory. The Coupe de France is important to us. It’s a difficult competition, we see other Ligue 1 clubs being eliminated, it’s always complicated matches. We managed to qualify for the quarter-finals tonight, and it’s all positive. My return? Obviously, it’s very emotional, after almost two years of absence, it’s a great pleasure. There are a lot of mixed feelings, and it’s nothing but pride to be able to wear this jersey with this logo, and to have the chance to enjoy it with my teammates.”