PSG: The Crazy Anti-Olise Tactic With Safonov’s "Missed" Clearances Explained

Against Bayern Munich, PSG used an unexpected tactical weapon to neutralize Michael Olise: Matvey Safonov’s clearances.

Safonov missed nearly all of his goal-kicks. Almost none of them stayed on the pitch. Brilliant on his line during the 1-1 draw between Bayern and PSG, the Paris goalkeeper repeatedly sent the ball out of play. Out of his ten goal-kicks, seven went directly into touch, always on the same side: the flank occupied by Michael Olise and Konrad Laimer.

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PSG’s Tactical Plan to Limit Michael Olise

But this repetition did not appear to be accidental. By deliberately sending the ball out for a throw-in far from the Paris goal, PSG gained valuable time to reorganize its defensive block and immediately trap Olise in a crowded area. Every throw-in forced Bayern to rebuild from deeper positions, reducing the spaces available for the French winger. It was a tactical idea designed by PSG’s Spanish coach.

Luis Enrique had clearly identified Olise as a major threat after his strong performance in the first leg. Whenever he received the ball, Nuno Mendes was quickly supported by Fabian Ruiz or Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to create constant double coverage and apply pressure.

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Luis Enrique pulled off a brilliant tactical move. He had Safonov deliberately aim every goal-kick out for a Bayern throw-in, specifically on Olise’s side.
By doing that, the play constantly became crowded on that flank, forcing both teams to overload the area and leaving… https://t.co/L94gobmO6o pic.twitter.com/KOCZ3nLlwK
— FCB Newmann Wealth (@Mhoni_Hiyst) May 7, 2026

PSG therefore accepted losing possession in certain situations in order to better control space. It was an unusual strategy for a team known for building from the back with short passes, but it played a major role in making Michael Olise far less influential. Sometimes, what looks like a mistake is actually a tactical decision, and Luis Enrique has become a master of that art.

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