PSG: Mauricio Pochettino reacts to 'difficult' tie against Real Madrid

The PSG manager is confident his side can beat the Blancos to get to the next Champions League round.

PSG discovered Real Madrid as their opponents during Champions League’s draw on Monday. Having qualified as Group A runner-ups, the French giants will now face one of the trophies’ main favourites.

In an interview with the club’s official website, Mauricio Pochettino spoke about their chances of beating the Balncos.

“It will be a difficult tie because they’re a team with a super coach and super players,” the Argentine said.

“We’ll be facing Real Madrid, who are a team used to winning the Champions League, a team with history and plenty of experience. It’s clear that we face a very tough tie.”

Despite a few brilliant performances, PSG are still far from their best form. However, with their star-studded squad, Pochettino’s side have the great potential to improve in the coming months.

The Argentine added: “It starts in February, so current form will count for little. The important thing will be to be in our best possible condition come February and to evaluate every player individually.

“There’s always an element of luck when it comes to a team’s form. For example, injuries can affect the team. This will be a knockout tie played on predetermined dates when several factors can influence the outcome.

“Of course, we have to be confident. We have a great team and great footballers with lots of talent. I have no doubt that we’ll approach the tie in the best possible way and still with lots of confidence in our players.

“We have enough quality to win this tie and get through to the next round. That’s Paris Saint-Germain’s objective.”

PSG defeated Monaco 2-0 in a Ligue 1 game on Sunday. It was not the Parisians’ best performance, but the partnership between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe showed significant improvement.

PSG will face Feignies in a Cup match on Sunday, before meeting Lorient in Ligue 1 three days later.