Fabrice Abriel: 'We showed patience and perseverance'

Fabrice Abriel

"We scored three goals. We showed patience and perseverance. It was important to have the ability to move the opposing block, to be technically precise because there was a lot of density, and to keep a good balance across the width of the pitch. We had two options: either combination play or diagonal balls over the defence. We tried both, and things opened up on a set piece, which is something we work on a lot. We also avoided being countered. We stayed vigilant, even though Le Havre had a chance to score within two minutes of the start. We maintained our rhythm and intensity, and at 1-0, it was crucial not to fall into the trap of passivity or complacency—we had to keep pushing to get the second or third goal. We knew we were physically strong and that there was a battle of endurance with our opponent. We had to keep wearing them down to create spaces, and we capitalised on a defensive error after a clearance—Romée managed to score the third, and Grace took advantage of a poor defensive clearance to recover the ball and score. The opponent made mistakes, but we forced them into those errors. There are fewer games, and we're disappointed about that, but at the same time, the players are very close, and everyone tries to give their best. You have to make tough choices at the start of the match. It's hard to please everyone. But when we can, we do, and maybe next weekend’s game will be much tighter. It's always a privilege to be able to make five substitutions. The league is a marathon, and there are direct confrontations ahead. We have to give ourselves the chance to play in decisive matches."

Sakina Karchaoui

"First of all, we got the 3 points, which was the main objective tonight. Then, we scored some beautiful goals, which was also a goal. The coach did well to rotate the squad, as it's important for everyone's confidence and playing time. We're trying new things, new tactics, and working on building more link-up among ourselves. We're putting in the work. It's true that it took us a bit of time to score the first goal, just like against Guingamp last week. It takes time to break down a compact block, and we had to find the right moment and rhythm. Once we got going, it was important for our confidence and to win the match."