According to a report by Barca Universal on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, Paris Saint-Germain defender Lucas Hernandez has explained the defensive strategy he used to reduce Lamine Yamal’s influence during PSG’s 4-2 Champions League victory over Barcelona.

Hernandez was one of the standout performers for the French side, contributing at both ends of the pitch. The defender scored a header to put PSG 2-1 ahead and produced a disciplined display to make life difficult for Barcelona’s talented winger.

Speaking after the encounter, Hernandez acknowledged Yamal’s quality but explained that staying close to the teenager and applying pressure were key to limiting his threat.

“Lamine Yamal? A brilliant player. I knew that if I stayed close and played aggressively, he’d find it difficult,” Hernandez said, as quoted by Barca Universal.

However, Barcelona found a way through shortly after Hernandez left the pitch. Yamal scored the equaliser after getting the better of Warren Zaïre-Emery, briefly raising hopes of a comeback for the Spanish giants.

PSG ultimately took control in the closing stages, finding the net twice more to secure an impressive 4-2 win and strengthen their position in the Champions League campaign.

Hernandez also disclosed that he only learned he would start the match during the pre-game team talk. Despite the late notice, he was determined to make a positive contribution and expressed satisfaction with how the evening unfolded.

PSG manager Luis Enrique praised the defender’s display, particularly his efforts in containing Yamal while also scoring an important goal. Young winger Désiré Doué also highlighted Hernandez’s contribution, naming him as his man of the match.

The performance reinforced Hernandez’s importance to PSG, showcasing his defensive discipline, physical intensity and ability to make decisive contributions in attack. His approach against Yamal also illustrated how close marking and aggressive defending can restrict even the most gifted attacking players.