'Proud' Leipzig boss Nagelsmann relishing facing ex-mentor, PSG coach Tuchel

Lisbon (AFP) – RB Leipzig boss Julian Nagelsmann says he is relishing facing former mentor and Paris Saint Germain coach Thomas Tuchel in the Champions League semi-finals following his side’s stunning win over Atletico Madrid.

Leipzig, who were only founded in 2009, booked a semi-final berth at their first attempt when US midfielder Tyler Adams hit an 88th-minute winner in Lisbon.

It sealed the Germans’ win after a Joao Felix penalty for Atletico had cancelled out Dani Olmo’s header for Leipzig early in the second half.

Leipzig now face PSG next Tuesday for a place in the August 23 final.

It was German coach Tuchel who gave Nagelsmann his first break at Augsburg 12 years ago as a scout which saw him then become a coach.

“They are a top team with a top trainer,” said the 32-year-old Nagelsmann, whose playing career was ended in 2008 by a serious knee injury.

“I have often played (as a coach) against him (Tuchel) but rarely won.

“They are a team full of stars,” Nagelsmann added, referring to Neymar and fellow PSG forward Kylian Mbappe.

“That’s no surprise to anyone and we will have to put in a top performance against them.”

Nagelsmann’s Leipzig held their nerve after Felix equalised before Adams came off the bench to seal the winner after superb work in the build-up by left-back Angelino and midfielder Marcel Sabitzer. 

“I was getting ready for extra time and thinking about who I would bring on, so I am happy that I didn’t have to do that,” added Nagelsmann.

“I couldn’t believe we scored that beautiful goal. 

“We had trained for the situation when we went 1-0 up, but things didn’t work out exactly.

“The boys sorted things out for themselves on the pitch and showed how mentally strong they are, so I am really proud of them.”