After a successful first half, LOSC was undermined by FC Rouen, in the 32nd finals of the Coupe de France, but validated its qualification for the next round of the competition (0-1). Not quite enough for the Lille coach, Bruno Genesio.
The last match of a long series
“Qualification, in the cup, we know that it is the most important. It was not an easy match to tackle. First, because it was the 26th since August, against a National team which was on very good momentum. I think we had a very good first half, where we should have killed the match and been calm at half-time. We didn't do it and, in the second, we foiled and we remained at the mercy of an error, a penalty, a header after a set piece, and that's what annoys me. This is also what we lack in the championship, sometimes: to push the opponent into our highlights. This is where we must progress. Ease in the last gesture? I don't know. I don't think so. In any case, the findings are there. We will work in training, even more. Little by little, we lose a little confidence because we can't make the gap. There is doubt mixed into all of this. »
“Retain the positive,” insists Genesio
“Even though we had 2-3 chances to score the second, we didn’t do it. We were more messy in our game. We got into the duels more than in the first half, when we had good positions to create gaps and superiority. Now, 26th match, qualified, our 17th match in a row without defeat: we must also remember the positive! »
A (very) positive outcome
“That’s why I’m a perfectionist, like tonight (Friday, Editor’s note). Let's say that I would have liked a better second half, but we also have to remember what we have been doing since August. We have been on deck since August 6, with the Champions League play-off matches. (…) Playing every three days, we know what it costs in terms of energy, especially mental. So, to end the year with a qualification here – it wasn't the easiest draw – remains very positive. Like our first part of the season. »
Source : beIN Sports
Photo credits:Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images
