Philippe Clement: "We have to be focused for 90 minutes"
These were valuable lost points. Despite what was Monegasque domination through the entire match, the Rouge et Blanc conceded a draw at the very end of the match, which finished 2-2 at the Stade de l’Aube. It was, however, a performance that gives hope for the rest of the season as Philippe Clement pointed out at a press conference.
Hello Coach. How do you feel after this match?
For me, the first half was lacking in aggression and duels. We gave Troyes too much space, which allowed them to be dangerous. Overall, we had more chances but we lacked a finishing touch. Coming back from the locker room, I wanted to see another side and I saw it. It’s a great reaction from the team. We won a lot more duels and conceded few chances defensively. On an attacking level, we had many opportunities, and it paid off.
82' HE'S DONE IT AGAIN!!! 🔥
1⃣-2⃣ #ESTACASM pic.twitter.com/uECssMfIe5
— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) March 5, 2023
We did the hardest part by coming back from a goal down. We were even about to score a goal to make it 3-1 with a big chance for Myron Boadu, which was flagged offside. On the last Troyes chance, the central defenders lacked concentration. The end of the match is difficult but we have previously finished our mathces well this season, like against Clermont for example.
How did you see the play of the Ben Yedder – Volland duo?
It’s dangerous to draw conclusions about links and individuals in these types of matches. In the first half, it was difficult for them, because the team was not doing so well. In the second half, the trend was reversed and I saw the best from them. The important thing is above all to think collectively in analyzing the performance. When the team puts in enough effort together, we are dangerous and vice versa.
Your #ESTACASM XI 📋 pic.twitter.com/usmH1W9jUu
— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) March 5, 2023
A word on the fine performance by Wissam Ben Yedder.
Yes it is important that he continues to score. He has already scored some of the most beautiful and difficult goals, and he often found himself on the end of some beautiful collective play. But what I have in mind to look at for the immediate future is above all what is a frustrating draw.
⚽️ @WissBenYedder: 14 @Ligue1_ENG braces#ESTACASM pic.twitter.com/sPNkK7u6tN
— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) March 5, 2023
Do you feel a sense of frustration?
Yes, that’s the word, because if we had been more clear-headed on the last chance, playing as we had in the second half and throughout the match, the result would be completely different. You have to be focused for 90 minutes, and not just part of the game. We had too many slack periods throughout the game. I talked about it with the players, but what is said in the locker room remains between me and my players.
A word on the changes, where we saw the substitutes involved?
Absolutely, it is essential to continue in this state of mind. We are one of the most successful teams in Ligue 1 with players coming off the bench. This is an important asset in being competitive at the end of the league season. During the coming weeks, I will observe the behavior of the players in training to see who is having difficulty and conversely those who show themselves to be ready.
65' SUBS:
🟢 Embolo, Jakobs
🔴 @KeVolland, Diatta1⃣-0⃣ #ESTACASM pic.twitter.com/uAoWGWbecz
— AS Monaco EN (@AS_Monaco_EN) March 5, 2023
