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Speid: Cavalier prepared for Cibao challenge
November 26, 2024
THE Rudolph Speid-coached Cavalier Soccer Club will go in search of their first Concacaf Caribbean Cup title when they lock horns with Dominican Republic-based club Cibao FC. in the first leg of the final tonight, with kickoff set for 8 o'clock at the National Stadium.
Speid explained that the preparation leading up to the game was "good", as he believes this team has gained more experience from last year's defeat.
"It's been good, it's more specific towards our opponents, so we've zeroed in on what we need to do against them," he shared. "It's a different situation; last time we went away then played at home, this time it's home then away. This time we're more experienced and I think it will help us," he stated.
The Cavalier coach noted being cognisant that a goal from Cibao FC tonight would be a crucial blow against his team's chances of lifting the title. Therefore, he's worked on certain aspects of their play on the training ground to ensure that he gets the most out of his players.
"We've looked at their strengths and weaknesses and I think we have a plan to do well. We have to be on top for 180 minutes," Speid said.
"It also places an emphasis on us not to concede and if we do, then it'll be a little more difficult for us going away. I'm confident that Cavalier is capable of doing the business either home or away," Speid added.
LETHAL WEAPON
One of Cavalier's most lethal offensive weapons is Trinidadian striker Kaile Auvray. The attacker shared that he revels playing in games of this magnitude and believes his team has all the tools needed to get over the line and lift the trophy.
"At the end of the day, it's just football. Our objective is to go out there and get our hands on the trophy while enjoying ourselves. I feel like we're very positive and it's about taking our opportunities when they come," Auvray highlighted.
"I don't feel much pressure, I've played in the Gold Cup before, I've played in the Nations League, so I feel I've played these types of matches before," he remarked.
Speid revealed that his only concern is getting the players consistently executing a good brand of football. He believes this is something the team, collectively, is getting slowly.
"All the players have a winning mentality but it's about consistency. While that is my biggest challenge, we're getting there," he concluded.
