Safet Sušić: "I was really impressed by Paris’s performance"
As he celebrates his 70th birthday today, the former Paris Saint-Germain forward – who racked up 85 goals in 344 competitive appearances between 1982 and 1991 – looks back at the capital club’s 3-1 win over Aston Villa in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final before looking ahead to the second leg.
Safet, what did you think of Paris Saint-Germain's 3-1 win over Aston Villa?
"I was really impressed by PSG's performance. It was a great, great match. Paris dominated for 90 minutes. Technically, it was really very strong. They can make ten passes in a row without losing the ball, and they get into the opposition box with great ease. On the counter-attack, the danger comes from everywhere because they have players who are very strong technically and who are also very quick. They were constantly pressing for the ball. Two or three players immediately pounced on the ball carrier to recover it quickly. It's great to see PSG play like that."
And the Parc des Princes atmosphere?
"When we play at the Parc, there's always a great atmosphere. The fans are always there. The scenario of the match also contributed to this atmosphere: being behind, equalising, then taking the lead... For the fans, it's the ideal situation! Winning by scoring three great goals is also perfect."
Are you feeling optimistic about Paris's chances of going through?
"The third goal is very important. Even if I think PSG are the better of the two teams, Aston Villa are still strong. There's a big difference between winning 2-1 or 3-1. That third goal gives us even more hope. Paris can score away from home as well as at the Parc. PSG have been showing themselves to be the form team in the Champions League for several matches now."
Do you like this version of Paris Saint-Germain?
"It reminds me of the Barcelona of ten years ago with Xavi and Iniesta. Luis Enrique has patiently built up his team to help them progress. He knows where he wants to go. He always manages to adapt and find the right solution. In attack, for example, there is no obvious starter, but four or five high-quality players. He finds the right combinations. He has created positive competition between his players. He's a very demanding coach. For example, against Aston Villa, he got angry when his team lost the ball. He doesn't like to see them lose the ball too quickly, even though his players were very good at recovering it."
What can we wish you for your birthday?
"Health most of all! Time flies, but I'm still in good health. Everything's fine, and long may it last so that I can keep going to the Parc to enjoy watching Paris Saint-Germain play."
