Kombouare applauds PSG mettle

Paris Saint-Germain coach Antoine Kombouare said his team showed character in their drought-breaking 3-2 win over Auxerre in Ligue 1.

The Parisian side responded to an equaliser from Dennis Oliech, which cancelled out Christophe Jallet’s opener, with goals from Jeremy Menez and Nene.

And although Dariusz Dudka pulled one back late on, Kombouare’s men held on to secure their first Ligue 1 victory in over a month.

“Our objective was victory, so I’m happy with what the players produced,” Kombouare said.

“I like wins like this one, ones that are clinched in adversity. It shows the players have character. I’m no masochist, but it was very promising how my players reacted after Auxerre equalised.”

The victory came amid reports that Kombouare is set to be replaced by Rafael Benitez, and the 48-year-old was happy to see that his players were not distracted by the speculation.

“They got the job done and were able to put my personal situation, and all the criticism, in the background,” Kombouare said.

“They’re learning and growing. It’s in adversity that a team is forged and you see the real qualities.”

“When we were sweeping all before us earlier in the season, that wasn’t a reflection of our true level. It’s a young squad, a new one. Nine new arrivals is a huge thing to take on, it takes time. I’m no magician.”

Despite their bad run of form prior to Sunday’s win, PSG are just three points behind Ligue 1 leaders Montpellier.