In their second Club World Cup group stage match, PSG fell to Botafogo (0-1). Luis Enrique acknowledged his opponent's merit.

On Thursday, PSG could have secured their place in the Club World Cup knockout stages. To do so, they needed to defeat Botafogo after their opening victory against Atlético de Madrid last Sunday (4-0).

However, against a well-organized Brazilian side, the Parisian club failed to break through and even conceded from Botafogo's only clear chance. In a press conference covered by L'Equipe, Luis Enrique analyzed the opponent's defensive strengths and his players' fatigue after a long season.

Surprised by the defeat?

"Surprised? No. We knew it would be a difficult, tight match. Botafogo defended very well. We had chances to score but didn't take them, and the game became harder. We understand this tournament's challenges. Now we must focus on the final match (against Seattle on Monday). It's a very short competition where you can be eliminated quickly. There might be a three-way tie in our group. Nobody knows who'll advance – it's wide open."

Was the result more due to PSG's performance or Botafogo's?

"It's a very intense tournament. Everyone is highly motivated, especially against us. We struggled to create scoring opportunities. This is a phase of play we know well, but today we had complications."

Botafogo's low block

"Botafogo are the team that has defended best against us this season – in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League. They formed a compact block, stayed solid. They scored through Jesus (36'). We didn't generate as many chances as usual. We're accustomed to facing low blocks, but it's very difficult. Credit to them."

Does this defeat reflect team fatigue?

"If any team can turn this situation around, it's ours. And there aren't many like that. Attitude-wise, we were good. The result shouldn't erase everything. We must review what we did well and what to improve. For example, we allowed more counterattacks than in many matches. But in these tournaments, you must deliver in key moments – today we didn't."

What does South America's champion beating Europe's champion signify?

"Nothing. What do you want me to say? This tournament brings together the world's best under balanced conditions. In future, it could become an international benchmark. As a coach, I find it very interesting."

Image credit - Paris Saint-Germain Football Club