Yoann Gibelin: 'A nice challenge'

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Tuesday night, Paris Saint-Germain Handball will play their Coupe de France semi-final away to Montpellier. Before the match, Les Rouge et Bleu left-back Yoann Gibelin stopped by for a chat.

During the last Liqui Moly StarLigue round, you faced boyhood club Créteil for the first time since leaving (37-40). What memories do you have of your time at the Créteil academy?

"I have a lot of memories! I played there for a long time, especially in the youth team. I met a lot of people. Some have left the handball world, but others are still there. They looked after me a lot and that's what sticks with me the most."

On Tuesday, you will compete in a Coupe de France semi-final. What does this competition mean to you?

"It is an objective, just like the championship. I have never won one and I have never participated in a semi-final either. It's a competition I really want to win. That's the case for the whole team."

It will be against Montpellier. What kind of match do you expect?

"A complicated match. When we played there in the championship, we lost (31-30)... We know that the atmosphere will be difficult to manage. They are a complete team with many good players. It's a nice challenge."

You are playing your first season in Paris. How do you feel?

"Very good! I'm getting more and more playing time and it's a real pleasure. That's what every player wants. You want to play as much as possible. The packed schedule gives me confidence and the team gives me confidence. It helps me to give my best. When you play a little less, you think too much. I give it my all."

You also took your first steps in the EHF Champions League. How was it?

"It is a dream. I always wanted to play in the Champions League. It's the highest level possible at a club. The opponents are incredible. We just finished the group stage and a tough quarter-final awaits us. I hope to go as far as possible. But for that, we'll have to beat Kiel in the next round."

(Credits: L. Valroff/TeamPics/PSG)

(Crédits : L.Valroff/TeamPics/PSG)