Luis Enrique commends PSG resilience in comeback triumph at Lens

Luis Enrique lauded his Paris Saint-Germain side for showing resilience in their comeback victory over Lens on Saturday.

M'Bala Nzola had fired Will Still's side into the lead nine minutes before half-time, with PSG staring a first Ligue 1 defeat of the season in the face.

But Fabian Ruiz restored parity shortly before the hour, with Bradley Barcola, who set up the opening goal, firing home the winner in the 86th minute.

The result saw Luis Enrique's side move 10 points clear at the summit of the standings, while they also extended their unbeaten league run away from home to 33 games.

PSG have not lost any of their last six away games in all competitions (won four, drawn two), their longest run since November 2023-April 2024 (15 – won 12, drawn three).

Against Lens, PSG attempted just two shots in the first half, their lowest tally at half-time of a Ligue 1 match since 29 January 2023 against Reims (one).

"It was a very contested, very difficult match. All matches are tough, and it’s hard to attack an opponent who defends so well with character and aggression," Luis Enrique told reporters.

"We started well, with control, but the real problems came in the second half of the first period when Lens became more dangerous.

"The second half was at a higher level, with more chances. The rhythm wasn’t enough in the first half, and we realised we needed to search for more depth."

Ahead of the game at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis, PSG confirmed the arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli in a reported €70million deal.

Kvaratskhelia was, however, not part of the travelling squad for their win over Lens, but Luis Enrique expects the Georgian winger to be involved in his side soon.

"We wanted to sign him for a long time," Luis Enrique said.

"He has experience, personality, and he knows how to score, dribble, and defend.

"It’s a very good signing, a great addition to an already excellent squad. I believe he will demonstrate his quality with us."

PSG now turn their attentions to the Champions League, currently sitting 25th in the 36-team standings with just two games of the league phase remaining.

They welcome Manchester City to the Parc des Princes on Wednesday before travelling to Germany to take on Stuttgart in their final game.