This success allowed Asec Mimosas to secure their place in the quarter-finals of the Confederation Cup. During the post-match press conference, Julien Chevalier discussed both the relief of the qualification and the challenges ahead for his team. « More than the score, it's the entire group stage that enabled us to qualify.
We knew we had to do our job and avoid regrets. The players gave their best with clarity, which was crucial for this result », he said. He also praised his team's effectiveness. « Despite some inaccuracies, we were able to be effective. This 4-0 is our biggest victory in this African campaign. The players showed personality and desire. This should be congratulated », he added. For the Asec coach, this qualification is an important step, but it also highlights the need to continue progressing.
However, Chevalier mentioned the state of his squad, pointing out some difficulties related to the absence of experienced players in numbers. « Many of our players are experiencing this level of competition for the first time. These are young players who are playing their first African Cup quarter-final. This generates tremendous pressure, but it's also a valuable experience for their development », he explained. He also emphasized the importance of building defensive stability and learning to manage pressure-filled matches. Julien Chevalier took the opportunity to remind everyone of Asec Mimosas' special place in this competition.
« We are the only West African team still in the race this year. This shows the difficulties our clubs face in these competitions. Despite everything, we continue to fight and get results. This proves the resilience and the quality of the work being done. And we will continue to bring points to Côte d'Ivoire », he affirmed.
The Asec Mimosas technical director called for the team to stay focused on the challenges ahead, particularly the quarter-finals, where Asec Mimosas will face a formidable opponent. « We will enjoy this qualification, but we must already think about the next phase. We will have to work hard to raise our level because the next round will be a real test », he warned. Regarding the general situation of Ivorian clubs, Chevalier offered a pragmatic analysis.
While Asec Mimosas reached the quarter-finals, other Ivorian clubs, such as Stade d'Abidjan, faced difficulties. According to him, managing teams in continental competitions remains complex, particularly due to the lack of regular experience in such tournaments. « It's tough because these are often players who are unfamiliar with the competition », he explained. He also stressed the importance of defensive stability, an area where the Yellow and Blacks have had to improve throughout the competition.
