AS Monaco players Lamine Camara and Saïmon Bouabré expressed mixed emotions after their team secured a 2-2 draw against Nantes at the Beaujoire Stadium in Ligue 1. While disappointed with the result, the two midfielders highlighted the team’s strong reaction after being two goals down at halftime, focusing on the positive aspects of their performance.
Lamine Camara’s Thoughts on the Match and Team’s Response
Lamine Camara admitted that the 2-2 draw was disappointing, as Monaco had hoped to secure three points to close the gap with Olympique de Marseille in the standings. The team struggled in the first half, showing a lack of intensity and desire, which allowed Nantes to take a two-goal lead. However, Camara emphasized that the team managed to bounce back in the second half, with a much-improved performance that saw them equalize.
“We knew we weren’t giving our best in the first half, which was a mistake because we conceded the first goal,” Camara said. “The second goal made things even harder, but the coach supported us, and that’s what helped us react.”
He also reflected on the tactical approach, stating that Monaco is comfortable with various systems, and the main issue was the team’s lack of intensity. “We were too slow, and that cost us,” he explained. “But we know we can correct these mistakes and focus on the next match.”
Focus on the Future Despite Draw Against Nantes
Camara acknowledged the pressure from competitors like Lille and Lyon, who are closely following in the standings. Despite losing points, Monaco remains focused on catching up with Marseille and aims to win their upcoming matches. “We are going to focus on the next games to try to win and move up the table,” Camara added.
Saïmon Bouabré Reflects on His First Starting Appearance
Saïmon Bouabré, who made his first professional start for Monaco, was pleased with his performance despite the challenging first half. “I was happy to start because it’s something I’ve been waiting for a long time,” Bouabré said. “It’s a nice reward for all the hard work we put in.”
Bouabré also praised his teammates, especially Eliesse Ben Seghir, who offered valuable advice before the match. He explained that playing behind the striker has always been his preferred position and that he felt good during the match despite the tough first half.
Monaco’s Focus on Improvement and Next Steps
Both players emphasized the importance of focusing on the positives, particularly the team’s ability to react and fight back after going two goals down. With a busy schedule ahead, Monaco is looking to quickly shift focus to their next match, which will be in the Coupe de France against Reims.
penulis: Zanuar Farel Cristian