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Reactions 18 February 2026, 08:55

Köhn and Teze’s reactions after the first-leg playoff against PSG

Köhn and Teze’s reactions after the first-leg playoff against PSG
Both disappointed by the outcome but not resigned ahead of the return leg, the Monaco goalkeeper and defender stopped in the mixed zone to share their thoughts on this first-leg playoff against Paris Saint-Germain.

They lost the first leg but are still in the tie ahead of the return match. After delivering an impressive performance and being reduced to 10 men early in the second half, AS Monaco conceded  a narrow defeat in this first-leg playoff against PSG (2–3). It was therefore with disappointment, but aware of their chances of qualifying for the round of 16, that Philipp Köhn and Jordan Teze spoke in the mixed zone. Excerpts.

Good evening Philipp. What’s your feeling after the first leg?

It’s obviously a bit disappointing because we started well by scoring two goals in the opening minutes. We knew they had individual quality, like Désiré Doué who scored twice. Unfortunately, right after the restart, we were unlucky to receive a red card, which changed the course of the match. Nevertheless, we showed great character while being a man down and only lost by one goal, which leaves us with a chance in the return leg.

First, we have a tough match against Lens this weekend. Our focus must be on that important game. After that, as I said, we still have a chance with just this one-goal deficit to make up. Anything can happen at the Parc des Princes.
Philipp KöhnOn the chances of qualification

Tell us about the feeling you experienced when you saved Vitinha’s penalty.

I was a bit lucky because I dived the right way. Fortunately, my instinct was correct in going to my right. Vitinha then congratulated me. I think it’s nice to see an opponent tell you that you did a good job.

What is the plan for the return leg?

First, we have a tough match against Lens this weekend. Our focus must already be on that important game. After that, as I said, we still have a chance with just this one-goal deficit to make up. Anything can happen at the Parc des Princes.

A word on Folarin Balogun, who scored a brace.

I think our start to the match was perfect, thanks to him. He didn’t have many chances, but he managed to score twice when he did. He’s a really good player and made the most of the chances he got.

We played really well during the first 25–30 minutes and managed to score two goals against them, which was ideal. The second half, however, was difficult because we were down to 10 men, but we’re only one goal behind - it’s not decisive ahead of the return leg. We still believe in qualifying; otherwise, there would be no point in making the trip.
Jordan TezeHis analysis of the match

Jordan Teze’s reaction

Good evening Jordan. What is your analysis after this narrow defeat?

I think each team had its half. We played really well during the first 25–30 minutes and managed to score two goals against them, which was ideal. The second half, however, was difficult because we were down to 10 men, but we’re only one goal behind – it’s not decisive ahead of the return leg. We still believe in qualifying; otherwise, there would be no point in making the trip.

What weaknesses did the coach emphasise to put PSG under pressure?

The coach told us that we shouldn’t give them too much space because they’re really comfortable on the ball. We need to press them and play forward as much as possible, like we did at the start with those two goals we scored. We were able to make good use of Maghnes (Akliouche)’s and Folarin (Balogun)’s qualities, especially by taking advantage of his pace.