Carlo Ancelotti spoke of Paris Saint-Germain’s ‘regret and pride’ in Champions League quarter-final elimination to Barcelona.
PSG were ahead on the night and in the tie thanks to Javier Pastore’s goal scored on the counter-attack shortly after half-time, only for Pedro Rodriguez to equalise and the French to be knocked out on the away goals rule.
“There is regret and pride. We did everything we could to win. Our team showed quality, character, bravery,” reflected Ancelotti post-match.
“We played very, very well. We defended a lot, yet when we had the ball we made the best use of it. In the end, I'm disappointed.
“We saw a very good game. We had some really good possession. We wanted to play an open and attacking style.
“We didn't just try to keep it tight like all the other teams who come here; for us, it was important to cause Barca problems.
“Messi boosted their confidence [when he came on]. Even if he is not 100 per cent fit, he is a fantastic player. It helped unlock the game when he came off the bench.
“In the first half we could have scored – we had two or three good opportunities. We then scored in the second half and there were more chances for us. With a bit more efficiency, we could have advanced.
“In the semi-finals the Spanish teams have more experience, but German sides are strong physically. Bayern have already won the championship so the semi-finals will be very open.”
