Soccer-Monaco don't see PSV repeat as luck of the draw

ByABC News
July 13, 2014, 5:44 PM

— -- MONACO, Dec 17 - Last season's finalists Monaco refused to consider themselves lucky on Friday after they were drawn against PSV Eindhoven in the last 16 of the Champions League. "I'd rather avoid this team," said international defender Patrice Evra. "We played them last year and we had two tough games. "Everybody says that we can call ourselves lucky because we avoided big names like Real Madrid or Juventus, but I don't believe taking on Eindhoven is going to be any easier." Monaco met the Dutch side last season during the group phase, winning 2-1 away before being held to a 1-1 draw at home. "If I had the choice I would have picked Porto," said defender Sebastien Squilacci. "Despite the changes PSV went through during the summer break, they are still a tough side. "And I don't think that we should rely on any psychological advantage because we beat them last year." Coach Didier Deschamps said Monaco had gained useful experience through last season's European campaign when they finished runners-up to Porto. "What we achieved last season could be an advantage," said Deschamps. "We have learnt to deal with big matches. "My only relief is that we have avoided Barcelona who to me look like the main threat in the competition."