Elohim Prandi: 'Their ranking does not reflect their quality'

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Before the match between Paris Saint-Germain Handball and Chartres, for Liqui Moly SarLigue Round 10, check out our interview with Elohim Prandi.

Against Chambéry (31-30), was it as complicated as it had been in the league ten days earlier?

"It's always tough playing them. They are a very competitive team. We have to stay concentrated in every game, because we can't let anything slip by. We were tired at the end of the game and we rushed a bit. We must not scare ourselves like that, and we have to kill off the match when we can. The style was there for 45 minutes. But we won and that's the main thing."

What does the Coupe de France mean to you?

"It's a very important competition. I'd love to make it to the final at the AccorHotel Arena, against a good team and in front of a lot of spectators."

On Friday you play Chartres. Will it be as difficult?

"They are a mid-table team in the Liqui Moly StarLigue, but their ranking does not reflect their quality. They play very well. They play very well, with a physical defence and fast ball movement. We will have to be serious, score goals and not give them hope."

You recently extended your contract. Do you feel that you have reached a milestone?

"Yes, I feel that I have grown and that my handball is improving. I think I have taken more responsibility. I like this role. I am happy with this situation. I want to improve my personal stats, but also those of the club. I really want to be part of the team that claims the club's first Champions League title. It will always be remembered."

Do you also have some new weapons?

"I try to show that I'm not just a long-range shooter, even though that's my main quality. I like to score from a distance, that's how it is. But I'm trying to improve on my ball release to free up my teammates as much as possible. In my shots, I try to alternate power and finesse and to vary the impact. I want to progress in all aspects and to be complete. Today, the modern handball player must be able to do everything."

How do you assess your performances so far this season?

"Individually, I am happy. I am not going to lie. When you do good things, you have to tell yourself that. I am consistent, committed and serious and I have confidence in myself. Collectively, we are co-leaders of the Liqui Moly StarLigue and one point behind Veszprém in the EHF Champions League. The team is feeling good and we are only getting stronger."

The 2023 World Cup is looming. Is that one of your goals?

"It has always been one of my goals. I really want to represent my country. I've been in all the French youth teams, so the next logical step is to be with the senior team permanently. I am in the list of pre-selected players, and it is up to me to do what is necessary to be in the final squad. That means good performances at club level."

WATCH THE FIRST PART OF OUR VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH ELOHIM PRANDI.

(Credits: E. Renard/Team Pics/PSG)