On Saturday, May 18th, GVC 2 played their championship match against Fortissimo 3. It was an exciting game between the top two teams in the league, resulting in a hugely successful outcome for GVC 2: a 2-0 win. Following this amazing championship victory, we had the opportunity to ask Baibing Yan, the coach of GVC 2, some questions about the season, the final match, and his plans for the future.
Congratulations, Baibing Yan! You and your team have accomplished what many football players around the world dream of: becoming champions! We are incredibly proud of you and your squad.
The Championship Match: GVC 2 vs. Fortissimo 3
Q: How did you prepare yourself and your players for the championship match versus Fortissimo 3?
A: The preparation for the championship match started long before the actual game. We had a rocky start, winning only 4 out of 9 games in the first half of the season, so we knew that we had to try our best to still contend for the championship title. Our confidence grew as we kept winning our matches in the second half of the season.
Before the last few games of the season, we had our minds set on winning the championship. Of course, the physical part (read: training) was important, but also building team chemistry. We organised team-building activities such as potluck dinners and watching Champions League matches together. This bonding off the field translated into a strong, united team on the field, where every player was ready to fight for the team.
Q: How did you feel prior to and during the championship match?
A: I was a bit nervous going into the match because Fortissimo has always been a tough opponent for us. Our previous encounters were always close, often decided by a one goal difference. Despite the nerves, I had full confidence in my team.
Q: During the first 10 to 15 minutes of the match, Fortissimo seemed to be in control of the ball. How did they manage that, and what did you do to change the situation?
A: Before and at the start of the match, I could sense some match tension from my team. Fortissimo’s players were fit and physically strong. Our nerves were evident in those first few minutes, but we stayed focused and played our game. Gradually, our players gained confidence when they saw we were better on the ball. My experienced midfielders, in particular, played a crucial role in maintaining control of the game.
Q: We saw the emotion at GVC’s first and second goals and at the final whistle. What was going through your mind in those moments?
A: Those were moments of pure happiness. I cannot describe the feeling. For many of the players, it was their first championship, and I was incredibly happy for them because they deserved it. Seeing their hard work and dedication pay off in such a rewarding way was amazing.
Q: Who did you select as the man of the match, and why?
A: It is very difficult to choose just one player because it was truly a team effort. Every player gave their all. The supporters were amazing as well.
Q: It was busy along the sideline during the championship match. Do you have any message for all those people who came to support GVC 2?
A: I would like to thank all the supporters who came to our match. The atmosphere was incredible, and I have never seen so many people at a GVC game. I hope we can have more of this in the future.
Reflecting on the Season
Q: How did you achieve such a successful season as a coach?
A: I think the most important thing for a coach at GVC is to transform a group of individuals into a cohesive team. We start every season with new players, making it challenging initially. Players have to get to know each other and trust that their teammates will fight for them. This season, we had a very talented group with a lot of individual quality. As the season progressed, our team play improved, and the players became a family.
Q: What was your biggest challenge as a coach this season, and how did you overcome this challenge?
A: The biggest challenge was selecting the 18 players for the championship match out of 24 talented individuals! In the end I had to make some tough choices, but the players who did not make the cut accepted my decision and came to support their team from the sidelines.
Looking Ahead
Q: What are your plans for next season? Are you staying with us at GVC?
A: GVC is my football home. Of course, I will stay (forever) :). My plan for next season is to build on this championship team and welcome new talented players. Perhaps we can become champions again!
Thank you, Baibing, for taking the time to answer our questions and for leading GVC 2 to such a memorable championship! We look forward to seeing what the future holds for you and your team.