This evening, SIG Strasbourg travels to Dijon, a match which has a particular flavor for our interior, Vitalis Chikoko. Between impactful individual performances and collective commitment, the Zimbabwean left his mark both at Rhenus and at the Palais de Sports in Dijon. Before returning to his former club, Vitalis tells us about his state of mind.
Since his arrival in Strasbourg, Vitalis Chikoko has become a centerpiece of the squad led by Laurent Vila. With constantly improving statistics and a dominant presence on the floor, he continues to be a leader inside.
Before shining under the colors of SIG Strasbourg, he also left his mark in Dijon. This trip will have a special flavor for Vitalis, who left a nice mark there during his visit. However, emotions will quickly be put aside to focus on the objective.
What state of mind are you in before this match against your former club?
V.C. : “I’m really looking forward to it. I have a lot of friends on this team. I have former teammates there who have become my brothers off the field. I can’t wait to see them again. Tomorrow’s victory is very important for us, having won in La Rochelle, it was a big boost for us We have a good state of mind in training, in the locker room Everyone is very focused and trains a lot individually. We must do everything we can to win Dijon.”
How are you coping with the absence of Brice Dessert?
V.C : “I have a lot of responsibility. I’ve been in this situation before in my career. I just have to play hard and control the mistakes. I know my teammates are behind me, so it can only be good. I’m really in good shape and I have regained confidence in myself. The confidence that my teammates give me is really important and it makes me want to work even more.
Is it an additional motivation to play against your former club?
VC: “I’m going to try to play my best game against Dijon. Last season was a bit complicated for me and I want to show them that I’m present and that I’m dominant.”
With Le Mans, Gravelines, and Strasbourg currently tied in the standings, the race to qualify for the Leaders Cup promises to be tighter than ever. Every victory counts, and this trip to Dijon is a key stage for Laurent Vila’s men.
Victory is essential to hope for a place in the Leaders Cup…
V.C. : “It’s not going to be easy, their coach has a big defensive and offensive identity, but I’m sure our coach has a good game plan to counter their strategies. I have confidence in the work we’ve done all week. It’s very important for our team to win in Dijon. We only have two games left before the Christmas break and we need to finish well to qualify for the Leaders Cup.
The situation in the rankings is clear: Le Mans, Gravelines, and Strasbourg are fighting for key places in the Leaders Cup. The next results will determine which clubs will obtain one of these precious tickets. With several possible scenarios, the slightest defeat will be costly.
“It’s a match that counts double, but it’s in these moments that we have to show our true colors.” Vitalis Chiko
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