‘I am convinced’ – Former PSG star backs Mbappe to come good vs Barcelona in second leg

Kylian Mbappe had a night to forget this midweek when he took on Barcelona in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals.

With PSG losing the game 3-2, Mbappe failed to make an impact and had no bearing on the game. He was completely bested by the Barcelona defence, led by a certain Ronald Araujo.

However, with PSG and Barcelona to meet once again on Tuesday, Mbappe will have an opportunity to redeem himself as he looks to make an impact in the second leg.

Javier Pastore backs Mbappe to succeed

Heading into this important game, former PSG footballer Javier Pastore has backed Mbappe to make an impact in the second leg.

“I am convinced that on Tuesday we will see a great Mbappe,” said Pastore (h/t Mundo Deportivo), who last played for Qatar SC and is currently without a club.

“Knowing him a little, he is the player who will most want to qualify. With PSG’s need to score, he will assume the responsibility and play a great game,” Pastore added.

Will Mbappe shine in the return leg? (Photo by MIGUEL MEDINA/AFP via Getty Images)

Everything indicates Mbappe will join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer. The Frenchman, therefore, is expected to do everything in his power to help PSG not only overcome the Barcelona challenge but also win the Champions League title come May.

Barcelona defence ready for the challenge

Mbappe, though, will once again face the daunting task of overcoming the Barcelona defence, which has been in brilliant form since the turn of the year.

Buoyed by the emergence of defensive gem Pau Cubarsi, coupled with the form of Araujo and Jules Kounde, Barcelona have managed to keep clean sheets left and right in La Liga.

Even Pastore heaped praise on the Barça defence, stating, “Barcelona were very smart to permanently put two players behind their backs on Wednesday.”

“They were very well controlled. But by bringing in defenders, they free up space for others. This explains why we saw a lot more of Dembélé at right back in these one-on-ones. one that he likes so much,” he added.