Mbappe extra-motivated for redemption vs Barcelona after dismal display in first leg

Barcelona will be in high spirits after emerging victorious against PSG with a 3-2 victory in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

While the one-goal advantage has made life simpler for Barça, the job is not finished yet. PSG will certainly not back down without a fight in the second leg, which will be hosted on home soil.

And one of the most gruelling tasks for the Blaugranes would be to recreate their defensive mastery against one of Europe’s most formidable frontlines.

Barcelona did ever so well to nullify Kylian Mbappe’s threat in the first leg, but given his talents and calibre on big occasions, the Frenchman is expected to fire on all cylinders in an attempt to make amends.

Mbappe ready to rectify

Indeed, as per SPORT Mbappe is furious with himself for his subpar performance and is eager to redeem himself against Barcelona at the Olympic Lluis Companys stadium.

Indeed, reaching the semifinals in what will be his last dance with PSG and demonstrating his ability to be a decisive factor in major competitions is all that’s on the 2018 World Cup winner’s mind right now.

Mbappe was shut down by the Barcelona defence. (Photo by ANNE-CHRISTINE POUJOULAT/AFP via Getty Images)

Although Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo stepped up big time to shut down Mbappe, sources from the Parisian club suggest a physical issue slowed him down, resulting in a lacklustre performance.

The Frenchman had zero shots on target, won just three out of 12 duels, and completed 1 out of four dribbles on the night, which proved to be an uncustomary occurrence for one of Europe’s best forwards.

Tactical tweaks expected

Given that Mbappe prefers to play off a traditional striker, as has been evident with the French national team, Luis Enrique might change up the offensive layout for the second game.

Ousmane Dembele could end up playing as a false nine, an option the coach has successfully tested out this season.

In fact, Dembele filled that position in the second half, which also coincided with PSG’s most promising period of the match.

In spite of Mbappe’s intent on redeeming himself, the Barcelona backline has churned out solid displays in quick succession over the past few months and will be looking to secure qualification to the semi-finals.