Thomas Tuchel Commends 'Teased' Angel Di Maria as PSG Secure Vital Away Goals in Win Over Man Utd

PSG manager Thomas Tuchel lauded his players for an 'excellent' second half performance after they beat Manchester United 2-0 in the first leg of their round of 16 tie in the UEFA Champions League. 

Two goals in eight minutes from Presnel Kimpembe and Kylian Mbappe meant that Tuchel and his team returned to Paris with two vital away goals, a factor that could prove decisive in the outcome of the tie. 

Mitchell Gunn/GettyImages

Although PSG were poor in the first half, failing to break down a resolute Red Devils team, they found their way through after the break to swing the balance of the tie in their favour. 

Speaking to BBC Sport, Tuchel said: "We lost too many easy balls in the first half but the second half was really excellent.

"We deserved to win, and to do so here at Old Trafford just now, I congratulate my team - but it's only half-time and we still have to play at the Parc des Princes."

Tuchel also praised former Manchester United man Angel di Maria, stating: "Angel di Maria is very competitive. If you tease him, it does not make him weaker.

"I thought he had a good relationship with the fans. He was a bit nervous and needed to be calmer in the first-half. In the end he did well."

PSG return to action in Ligue 1 on Sunday, as they travel to St.Étienne for a 20:00 GMT kick-off. The return leg of their tie with Manchester United takes place on 6 March, also at 20:00, with the Parisians in a strong position to progress to the next round.