MY ACCOUNT
Mauricio Pochettino is no longer surprised by Kylian Mbappe, whose excellent display was not enough for Paris Saint-Germain to win at Strasbourg on Friday.
After Kevin Gameiro’s second-minute opener, Mbappe scored a double and set up another for Achraf Hakimi to put PSG firmly in command at Stade de la Meinau.
However, Marco Verratti’s own goal 15 minutes from time piled the pressure on and Strasbourg bagged a 3-3 draw through Anthony Caci’s stoppage-time volley.
Mbappe has now been involved in 54 goals (35 scored, 19 assisted) in all competitions this season, equalling a career-best figure set in 2018-19.
His Ligue 1 tally now stands at 131 goals, with Edinson Cavani (138) the only player this century to have scored more than him, and Pochettino hopes he finishes the campaign at the top of the scoring charts.
“Kylian no longer surprises me,” said Pochettino.
“I hope he can finish as the league’s top scorer. Kylian helped us a lot in getting the title.”
Despite PSG’s surrender of a two-goal lead, Pochettino did not seem unduly fussed, adamant the champions generally played well.
He added: “During the last 10 minutes, after Marco’s own goal, we didn’t panic. This [the late comeback] happens in football. Strasbourg had nothing to lose.
“I’m happy because we played a very good match. We played good football at times. We were professional and that’s important for us.
“I have no regrets about my changes. I think we controlled the game.”
Strasbourg remain in the hunt for Champions League qualification after the draw, though Mbappe felt PSG made it easier for them than they should have.
“No, [we were not surprised] because we have TVs and we watch the matches!” said Mbappe.
“It’s not a team that’s come from nowhere – they’re having a great season. I think we gave them the stick with which to beat us, but we mustn’t take away the merit from teams that manage to get a result against us.
“It’s not just because we slow down or play a little less well. They managed to turn things around at home, so well done to them.”
