In the midst of the controversy surrounding reports of racist remarks he allegedly held as Nice manager, Christophe Galtier had something to smile about with PSG beating second-placed Lens to go nine points clear at the top. Goals from Kylian Mbappé, Vitinha and Lionel Messi have all but ensured PSG a record 11th League title. Lens midfielder Salis Abdul Samed’s 19th-minute red card proved the game’s turning point.
“We benefited from the numerical advantage in the first half”, Galtied said to Canal+. “However in the second half, we let ourselves go slightly. Positioning was not followed well enough. We should have been more serious and aggressive attacking-wise.” When Lens went down to ten men, Galtier reverted to a four-man defense with Danilo Pereira moving up into midfield to ramp up the press on Lens’ backline. “We were able to bring more players behind their midfielders. It worked, we scored beautiful goals“, lauded the PSG boss.
Galtier then spoke about the rough week he had gone through amid the allegations of racism held against him, and the preparations for this potential title-deciding game at the top of the league. “Nights were short, but I retain my energy and my resolve. I took refuge in my work. My players were really committed in training and I took it as a strong sign, they enjoyed winning tonight.” Galtier went on to thank the many individuals, including fellow coaches and former players, that showed support towards him. “It warms the heart. All my life, I’ve been enriched by diversity.“
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
