Just days away from a decisive encounter in Dakar for the 5×5 basketball World Cup qualifiers, the new head coach of the senior Ankoay, Mickaël Pivaud, shares his perspective. He believes in his team’s potential, with the objective of turning the tide.
You are taking over the team at a delicate moment. Could you share your initial observations on the Ankoay?
The first thing I can say is that I am very proud of the mission entrusted to me. After two training sessions with the squad, my initial assessment is very positive. I am pleasantly surprised by the players’ attitude. They are attentive, disciplined, and eager to learn. They have high expectations for this preparation, and for my part, I am eager to see it through to gauge their room for improvement.
How does the level compare to the European players you are accustomed to coaching?
The level is different. I wouldn’t say it’s better or worse. Malagasy players have their own unique qualities and aptitudes. My role is to adapt to these characteristics to put them in the best possible conditions. Every team has its own identity, and you have to know how to get the best out of it; it is up to me to adapt to everyone’s individual strengths.
Madagascar is in a very tough group and currently sits at the bottom of the pool. Do you believe Madagascar still has a slim chance of advancing to the next round?
Yes, absolutely. Not only do I believe that chance exists, but we will do everything in our power to seize it. The goal is to reverse the trend and move past the role of the underdog that many attribute to us against our opponents. We know the task is complicated, but we are not going to show up already defeated.
Among the three opponents in Pool B, which one seems the most accessible?
There is a strong chance it is the Democratic Republic of Congo. But beyond the notion of an ‘accessible’ opponent, it is primarily the team we have targeted. It is our first match, and we have an eight-point deficit to make up. Our full attention is focused on this first encounter, as it could dictate the rest of our campaign.
How do you plan to prepare your players mentally and technically for this decisive duel against the DRC and the remainder of the competition?
The first step is to clearly define everyone’s roles. All players must know exactly what they need to do within this squad. Technically, we also need to provide them with benchmarks: where to position themselves, how to react in certain situations, and when to take a shot or make the right decision. Once these patterns are ingrained, the boys will naturally gain confidence.
Will Madagascar have the luck needed to advance to the next round?
I sincerely hope so. But luck is not enough; you have to provoke it. We will be ready to fight and give our maximum to reach this objective. What is certain is that no one will be able to reproach us for not having tried everything.
Donné Raherinjatovo
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-23 06:30:35 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/mickael-pivaud-la-rd-congo-est-notre.html