AS V.Club head coach Youssoupha Dabo has underlined the importance of sticking to his team’s playing philosophy as they prepare to face AS Maniema Union on Thursday, March 6, in a crucial Ligue 1 fixture at the Stade des Martyrs.
V.Club, currently third in Group B with 23 points, are searching for their first victory in the second phase of the national championship after a defeat and a draw last week against Anges Verts New Jack (0-1, 1-1).
Facing an in-form Maniema Union, Dabo remains focused on his team’s approach rather than adapting to the opposition.
“What matters is what we can do”
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, the Senegalese coach reiterated his belief in a structured game plan, insisting that V.Club’s performance should not be dictated by their opponents.
“Our state of mind remains the same. We do not change our approach based on who we play against. We are building a philosophy, and what matters most is what we are capable of doing on the pitch,” Dabo stated.
Acknowledging the challenge posed by Maniema Union, he added: “They are in great form and full of confidence, which is normal. But these are the kinds of matches where we must also prove ourselves. We lost to them in the first leg, but for 70 minutes, we played well. Now, the challenge is to maintain that level for the full 95 minutes.”
Playoff qualification the main focus
While many teams are fixated on finishing at the top of the group, Dabo insists that his primary goal is simply to secure qualification for the playoffs.
He stressed that finishing first or sixth in the group ultimately holds the same value, as all qualifying teams start fresh in the knockout phase.
“When I arrived here, I told the president and sporting director that whether we finish first or sixth, it doesn’t change anything. You can top the group but then finish fourth in the playoffs. What matters is qualifying and achieving our objectives step by step,” he explained.
Dabo also expressed confidence in his squad’s progress, particularly with the integration of new players, but noted that development remains a work in progress.
A crucial test for V.Club
With AS Maniema Union arriving in strong form, Dabo expects a highly competitive encounter, comparing it to a CAF Champions League-level match.
“If we are not motivated for these kinds of games, then we are not ready,” he asserted.
As V.Club look to secure a much-needed win, Dabo’s side will need to translate their philosophy into results on the pitch.
The match presents an opportunity to regain momentum in their pursuit of a playoff spot, where their ultimate ambition of lifting the championship trophy remains the key objective.
