Paris Saint Germain head coach Mauricio Pochettino conceded his disappointment at his sides Trophée des Champions defeat against LOSC last night, but congratulated the reigning champions on their win in Tel Aviv
A superb strike from LOSC midfielder Xeka was enough to secure the trophy for Jocelyn Gourvennec's men in Tel Aviv, and the Argentine felt his make-shift team dominated the game without getting the rewards they deserved.
"Losing a final is a disappointment. Overall, we were good in the game but despite our domination in the second half we didn't manage to win," said a frustrated Pochettino. "Congratulations to LOSC, we have even bigger things to go for this season."
Pochettino lamented PSG's missed chances but is confident that his side will convert those chances once he has his full squad back from their summer break.
"I think we were the better team on the pitch tonight. But we didn't take our chances, and to win in football you have to score," said the Argentine tactician. "It's a new season, I'm happy with my players and their attitudes; we'll be better when we have the full squad available. I never doubted any of the players' commitment. We wanted to win tonight, we did everything to do so, and we played the players who were capable of doing so."
Meanwhile, LOSC head coach Gourvennec was delighted to pick up his first trophy with the club but admitted this side were under the cosh for long periods in the second half.
"When you play for a trophy, what matters is winning," said the new man at the helm. "We suffered in the second half because there was a lot of quality attacking us. We went through a lot, but the players are used to it. There were also moments like this last season, and we were able to stay strong."
Gourvennec confessed that taking over from Christophe Galtier was a difficult task and last night's success should be shared with the new OGC Nice head coach.
"It is not easy to take over from Christophe," said Gourvennec. "I say it simply, I share this title with him because he has done a remarkable job with his staff. It's kind of his title and it's good to start on a positive note. There is collective strength in this team and talent too. We found that tonight.
LOSC and Paris Saint-Germain will renew their season-long rivalry as the teams look to battle it out for the Ligue 1 Uber Eats title. The 2021-22 season resumes on Friday and both clubs will set their sights on lifting the title next May.
(Photo: Paris Saint-Germain)
