Gambardella: Andrea Scarpitta and the Saint-Clément Monferrier U18s are “linked for life by this adventure”

Andrea Scarpitta, the captain of ESCM (U18 R1), in full happiness after the feat of his teammates in the Gambardella Cup. ESCM FOOT

Interview with the captain of the Grenats (U18 R1) after the exploit of ESCM (Hérault) in the round of 16 of the Coupe Gambardella Crédit Agricole.

With a little hindsight, are you aware of the feat you achieved ?

To be very honest, I couldn't sleep on Sunday evening. The emotions gradually subsided on Monday, that’s when I really realized what we had done. We are all linked for life by this adventure.

Precisely, what do you remember at the moment from this incredible journey ?

That it’s a truly exceptional experience to live. This is the only time in our lives that we will have the opportunity to play the Gambardella Cup, so reaching the round of 16 is absolutely incredible. But we don’t want to stop there, we want to go even further.

What's going through your head when you save the first shot on goal ?

I exploded with joy and screamed at the top of my lungs. Afterwards, it was only the beginning of the session, I had to stay focused for the rest. But it’s clear that in terms of emotions, it’s just exceptional to experience.

You have never played in such an atmosphere. How did you experience this very particular context ?

Honestly, it’s huge. It was the first time we played in front of so many people. I am sure that this support boosted us and allowed us to seek qualification. Especially since before the match, the coach told us that it had to be a bonus and not negative pressure. We were prepared for this fervor, which is also what allowed us to manage it well and use it.

A word also on the match. You sought this qualification through courage (0-0, 4-2 tab).

Exactly, a bit like since the start of the competition in fact. This is the third time we have qualified on penalties. But it’s also proof of the values ​​we have in the team. Even though it’s difficult, everyone hangs on for the group. It’s a real collective that qualified on Sunday. And I obviously want to include the coach. We know everything he has done for us since the start of the season. This qualification is also his.

What were your words as captain ?

Before the match, give everything and don't give up. Whether we win or lose, I asked that we fight to the end. As for the post-match, I especially said that I was proud of them and of being the captain of this team. What we have done is already exceptional, but we don't want the adventure to stop there. When we have already made this part of the journey, why not try to get to the quarter-finals and even more.

Do you have a preference for the draw ?

Personally, I would like to take a very large one. But I also believe that at this level of the competition, all teams can win. No matter the opponent, it will be difficult, but we will give our best whatever happens.

Until dreaming of the grand finale ?

Why not. See you on May 27 at the Stade de France!

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