Despite the class gap between Pau and AS Monaco, on the eve of playing the semi-final of the Gambardella Cup (French Cup for young people under 18), the Monegasques expect to face a Béarnaise formation reputed for never giving up, winner on penalties for defending champion Lyon in the previous round.
More than a Petit Poucet, Pau is a head cutter. He is also an unprecedented opponent at this level.
For a few seasons now, football has now taken hold in the birthplace of Henri IV and the recent performances of their elders, promoted to Ligue 2 three years ago, encourage the hopes of the club to imitate them. In short, any call for caution before this semi-final where the public will push those who are called in Béarn the “maïnats” (the little ones in Béarn).
Pau is aiming for yet another feat
Pau will not give any gift to ASM, considered by local coach Mathieu Perez – a lifelong supporter of the Principality club, as one of the best training centers in France and even in the world. “It’s an exceptional adventure. We pinch ourselves to realize that we are in the semi-finals of Gambardella”.
When they started their journey last September, the Palois were aiming for little more than “the 64 finals in order to collect the famous jerseys”but following ten rounds, Pau FC wants even more. “We approach this match in the same way as usual, it’s a chance for us to play once morest Monaco, we work well and we have fun but we obviously want to create a new achievement”admits the coach of Pau FC.
Here are the ASM U18s warned of Pau’s intentions and the trap in which they can fall as the enthusiasm will be on the side of an opponent who will be carried by nearly 4,500 supporters this Monday.
The hopes of AS Monaco face Petit Poucet, Pau, this Monday away, for a place in the final of the Gambardella Cup. (Photos ASM and Floran Malsan/Pau FC)Photo MM.
