© EuroFootball.com
"Paris Saint-Germain" (PSG) coach Carlo Ancelotti after the Champions League match with "Barcelona" declared that Alexis Sanchez, who earned a penalty kick from 11 meters, is an actor who simulated a foul.
The first leg of the quarterfinals in Paris ended 2-2. However, PSG had to equalize the score in extra time. In the 89th minute, Xavi converted the penalty kick, earned by A. Sanchez, who dribbled into the penalty area and forced the goalkeeper to commit a foul.
"That was not a penalty. It was a gift from the referee. We already have experience with Alexis. In August, he also simulated during a friendly match. We know him, and we know that Alexis likes to pretend fouls. It's nothing new," said C. Ancelotti after the match, whose team was saved by a goal from B. Matuidi in the third minute of added time.
C. Ancelotti did not hide that he liked the performance of his players, but admitted that a stronger game will be needed at the "Camp Nou" stadium.
"It was a good match. We started strong, but things got complicated later on. It took a lot of effort to equalize. The chances are not lost yet. We showed that we can compete with Barcelona. We will have to score twice there. This time we did it, so we will have to repeat it in the return match," explained the coach.
Having spent more than 250 million euros on new signings, PSG is pleased that Lionel Messi may miss the next match due to injury. L. Messi was forced to leave the field in the second half.
"We paid a huge sum because we lost L. Messi and J. Mascherano. If Lionel cannot play - the loss will be incredibly huge. However, we have Cesc Fabregas and other players, so we are confident in this regard," said "Barcelona" assistant coach Jordi Roura after the match.
In this match, viewers also saw David Beckham on the starting lineup.
"I put Beckham on the field because he excels in forward passes and knows how to change the game. He really switches sides well, makes passes. That's why I chose him," C. Ancelotti commented on his decision.
