Guillaume Gille (coach of the French team speaking to BeIN Sport): “It was a tournament entry match, against a team we don’t know very well and who gave us a hard time. What I remember is that it was we who somewhat dictated the good and bad moments of this meeting. We experienced too much waste during the first period, but despite everything we managed to turn with an interesting advantage (17-13). And over time, with our rotations, the physical difference is illustrated and we take the lead more widely. “In the end, this resulted in a match in which we were not worried and where we allowed the entire group to enter the competition. It’s satisfactory at that level. On the game, on the other hand, there is a lot to complain about.
Hugo Descat (winger of the French team speaking to BeIN Sport): “It’s a very nice victory. It was important to win above all. We know that the first matches in major competitions are very delicate. We did the job, that’s the most important thing. We have four days to prepare for Switzerland now, which will also be a complicated match. What we remember this evening is the victory (…) To play in front of so many people, it was grandiose, but they were not for us. What must be really great is playing in front of 55,000 people who are dedicated to your cause.”
Ludovic Fabregas (pivot of the French team speaking to BeIn Sport): “Today, we had a good match for a first outing in the Euro. It was important to gain confidence, to win this match no matter how, if I can say so. At the end, this gap of ten goals is the largest we have had and we can be satisfied with it. We have a lot of qualities in all positions. We have a lot of rotations and our bench depth allows us to widen the gap. It’s important to use all the forces present. I hope everyone enjoyed it and had fun in front of this huge room.”
Benoit Kounkoud (winger of the French team speaking to BeIN Sport): “I was ready, and I really wanted to be there. I was focused and didn’t get distracted. When the coach told me that I had to come, my suitcase was already packed. I am very happy and very proud to be here. Choices were made, but that is a thing of the past. I am here to bring my energy, my freshness and my objective is to help the team as best as possible. I also have the chance to defend as number 2 at club, which allows me not to think too much when I am on the pitch.