Quickly arriving in front of the microphones in the mixed zone after LOSC's disappointing draw against Nantes (1-1), Aissa Mandi let her frustration speak. By pointing out, in particular, some recurring shortcomings of the Mastiffs.
Aïssa, what are your feelings after a draw and this poor result at the start of the year?
“Disappointment, obviously. These are two points lost for us. We prepared well, we wanted this victory. We didn't know how to take cover quickly, score this 2-0 which could have relieved us. Unfortunately, we are always within reach of a penalty or a counter from the opponent. Today, what was missing was the 2-0.
What did you miss today?
I don't think it's a lack of reference points. I said, I think it's the second goal. We tried, we had high positions, crosses, shots, but it didn't happen. It is not today that there is a lack of this efficiency to be able to take shelter. Afterwards, we don't play alone. Nantes are also a good team, who know what to do on the pitch. Just a month ago, they drew in Paris (1-1). They know how to defend and that's what they did very well.
Mathis Abline caused a lot of problems for the LOSC defense….
Yes, he is a very good player. But it's not just him, the entire Nantes team had a good match. I think we didn't play the match we should have had, we should have won this match.
We only wanted victory. A draw is not enough for us.
You missed the opportunity to get on the podium, which often happens for LOSC. Is it annoying as a competitor?
Honestly, it's not done on purpose, it's not what we want to do (smile). On the contrary, we want to win this type of match. Unfortunately, we didn't succeed this evening. It will only be postponed. We are ambitious and competitive. It will be a little later in the season.
What is the feeling in the locker room? Is it like a defeat?
Exactly. Afterwards, it remains a point. It is a series (of invincibility, 18 matches) which is in progress. But it's a very big disappointment. We only wanted victory. A draw is not enough for us. We are very disappointed.
Did you find the fitness of your entire team a little disparate? Was the recovery too fast for some?
No, I don't think so. This is the fate of all matches. It's not just a question of recovery, there are players who are a little better physically, others a little less well. The main thing is to improve and move forward. We're not going to be so negative.
You were hit pretty early. Did you grit your teeth to hold on?
Yes, I tried. I was very sore with the first action. There is also Matias (Fernandez-Pardo) who comes out injured (10′). Even if it's the first action and I haven't seen it again, for it to come out, it must be a very violent shock. I don't think there was even any yellow. I gritted my teeth. Matias couldn't, unfortunately. But we try for the team. »
Comments collected by Enzo PAILOT
Photo credits: Dave Winter/FEP/Icon Sport
