“You are going to play your third C1 semi-final with PSG. Is it different from the first two?
Each season, each match has its story. But there is the experience that we have had and that is important. The coach also has this experience. He knows how to prepare for these kinds of key matches very well, especially a qualification for a C1 final. These are matches that we are happy to be able to play. You have to motivate yourself with good energy.
To what extent do you feel that the Parc des Princes can bring you that extra bit of soul?
We know the importance of playing in our home, with our supporters. This is why there is also a lot of confidence for this match. We know how they can change a match with their songs, their energy. We know how much football matters in people’s lives. In Paris, there is this passion that we know in Brazil. This is why it will be important to play with this energy.
What ingredients will it take to qualify?
We have our strategy. We will have to play with our idea, the idea that we have had since the start of the season, control the ball, do what is necessary to create chances like in the second half there. We talked a lot, worked, cited details to improve. Everyone is ready and aware of what they have to do.
“We have this great hope of doing great things”
In Barcelona, you were behind but remained calm. Is this new this season?
It’s true that there was this calm. We saw how important it was. The coach insists on the duration of the match, that it could last 95 minutes, maybe 120. We were in the match, not in difficulty. We conceded a goal but we continued with our energy, the same idea. Preparation throughout the season plays a role. The club is growing too.
You are the youngest team in the semi-finals. Do you see this aspect as an advantage?
For now, it works very well. The coach likes to make this mixture, youth / experience. He asks a lot, is real with the players. Even young people, those who have little experience in C1, have this confidence from the coach. It’s work that comes throughout the season. Some have experience, others less but when they go on the pitch, they play with quality. This is what makes us strong.
Can you tell us what the coach told you to believe it after the first leg?
(He pauses) I can’t. We had a discussion immediately after the match. During the week, the coach showed us the strategy for the next match and it was like that.
Is it possible to compare this season with that of 2019/2020 when you reached the C1 final?
It’s very difficult to compare seasons, teams, players. This season, there is great hope. In 2020, we had a very good journey, one that remains engraved in memories. It was a special season also because of what the world experienced. It was very different. But we must always maintain this collective culture. Above all, we rely on work, group cohesion, the desire to do things for each other. Afterwards, the judgment, I leave it to you. We, the players, have this great hope of doing great things. »