PSG coach Pochettino defends Messi penalty failure after victory over Real Madrid

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·16 February 2022

PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino has defended Lionel Messi after his penalty was saved in their Champions League win against Real Madrid.

PSG won the first-leg of their round 16 tie 1-0 last night, with Messi having a penalty saved by Real goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

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Pochettino said: "The penalty taker? They are the ones who decide. But for me it has nothing to do, I'm so happy with Leo's performance.

"If the team played well, it's because he was so good today. We feel sorry for him because he deserved to score.

"But without a doubt, he is the best player in the world and he will make the fans happy because he has an incredible talent and a great character."