Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi has called for greater consistency and focus after his side narrowly secured a place in the UEFA Champions League semifinals despite a second-leg defeat to Aston Villa.
The French champions progressed 5–4 on aggregate after losing 3–2 at Villa Park on Tuesday night, having taken a 2–0 lead in the first half before the hosts mounted a spirited comeback.
Hakimi, who scored PSG’s opening goal, acknowledged that the team anticipated a strong response from Villa and were not surprised by the intensity of their fightback.
Speaking after the match, the Moroccan international stressed that while qualification was achieved, the manner in which it was secured left room for concern.
“We knew we were going to suffer and we suffered because of ourselves but we are happy to have preserved the qualification.
“We see the work we are doing with the coach, it shows in the results and we are happy for that.”
The right-back also expressed support for teammate Ousmane Dembélé, who had voiced frustration with PSG’s lack of composure after going two goals up.
Hakimi agreed that allowing two quick goals after the break was unacceptable for a side with ambitions of winning the tournament.
“I agree with Ousmane,” said Hakimi.
“It’s not possible to start the second half with two goals like that, a team that wants to win the Champions League can’t do that. We have to take responsibility. We have to improve that, we’ll talk about it after.
“We came with the intention of qualifying and we did it but we have to improve certain things and give continuity to what we do well.”
