Q: How do you analyze this quarter-final?

A: "It was great. It was a big game, like all games against Sweden. We had to wait a little bit, but the first half was not bad at all. The physical power and the French defense allowed us to close the gap. Then they played seven. There it is, this is the new gadget in world handball. They made us suffer, but not enough to reverse the score. The defense was heroic, so There is every reason to be happy, satisfied, happy. We reach the semi-finals, that means a weekend of handball here and in France. The duty is accomplished, and more if affinities. We remained calm and We were a little disappointed to take this last goal at the end of the first period.It was difficult for them to come back, because we didn't let go. When the France team leads, it does not relax.

Q: How to explain this?

A: "It's the physical, the mental, the bravery in defense and the calm in attack. We stammered a little at the end when they were spread out a lot in defense. It is perhaps the small lesson that this type of defense gives ideas in Denmark, it will be necessary to be a little more serene, whereas we have ample means to dominate on a high defense, as Méline Nocandy did very well. We can do better, but we take the pressure off anyway. I hope everyone will let go, will be playful. I have confidence in the goalkeepers. I know they are going to have a great weekend. "

Q: Since 2016, you have entered the last four six times and come back six times with a medal.

Is there a recipe?

A: "The recipe is hard work, commitment, fighting spirit. It's a very ambitious, very combative team, and when you arrive at matches as important as this one, there is a form of 'intransigence in the investment which perhaps gives them that little extra touch. There are real leaders who are reassuring through their commitment and their competence too. A team that has made people talk about it like that, it generates enthusiasm and from that moment on, the French like to see this team win. It puts pressure on the team and the management. We are happy to do this weekend. "

Interview in mixed zone.

© 2021 AFP