Niko Kovac (Monaco coach): “The players have more confidence”
Monaco faces Paris-SG on Sunday. On Saturday, at a press conference, Monegasque coach Niko Kovac spoke of the meeting.
“Last season, you beat PSG twice in the Championship. Have you reminded your players?
We know what we did last season. I have felt a good atmosphere for a few days. My players like to go to the Parc des Princes, they like to play against PSG. It is the best team in France. My team believes in their chances of winning, that’s what’s important. This is only possible if you believe in it, but you have to show it on the pitch. We are very positive about our chances.
Do you think qualifying early in the Europa League freed you?
It’s always important to win. It is the first time that AS Monaco have not lost a match in the group stage of a European Cup. At the beginning, it was not so easy, but little by little we are moving forward, we can see it in the content and in the results. We’re going slowly, but we’re making progress. For Sunday’s match, we have nothing to lose: PSG are still the favorites but we believe in our strengths. The players have more confidence now, they believe in their qualities. It is essential to be able to win.
“Against PSG, we must play at our highest level”
How do you see the start of the season in Paris, which is still a lot?
I find it difficult to understand these criticisms. They are first with an eleven point lead. Of course, PSG are a great team. In front of her, on must play at our highest level. Last season, we were very disciplined tactically. If we only play forty-five minutes at our best, that won’t be enough. We can only win if we all play together and everyone is 100%.
Against Lens, the PSG had been put in difficulty by a very high pressing. Could this be your option?
Compared to last season, a lot of teams are much more aggressive, they participate higher. We had already taken this path last season. The best teams have problems when they’re in a rush. Anyway, on Sunday you have to be very disciplined and very strong in the duels, as Lens had been. And be decisive as soon as we have a chance.
Who are your absent players?
Benedict (Badiashile), Those C (Fabregas) and Krépin (Diatta) are injured. Kevin (Volland) is suspended. The others are available. “