National 2: Sporting Toulon hopes to join the fight for promotion until the end

Third last season thanks to a promising end to the season, Sporting Toulon aims to maintain this momentum and fight for promotion until the end. While everything will be decided in March-April, they must stay in the game until then. In short, step by step.

The first is to build a squad taking into account the shortfalls observed in 2024-2025. "I wanted a more aggressive, more athletic team. I am satisfied with the recruitment because all the positions are doubled. I am still waiting for a midfielder who makes an impact," explains coach Momo Sadani.

The Abdoulaye Diallo case remains unresolved. The N2 top scorer only returned this week, and things should return to normal over time. A situation the coaching staff could have done without, even if they have options with Bennekrouf, Diarra, Khaled, Vialla, or Reymond.

More solid and experienced

"The objective is to improve match after match. The opponents play differently against Toulon. The group will still be very even with unknowns like the Ile-de-France clubs Bobigny, Créteil and St-Maur. The idea is to be in the game in March-April to reach our top at that point and finish like a cannonball. It's a long process. There will be ups and downs. I want players who are involved and respectful of the choices," he continues.

In terms of satisfaction during this preparation phase, Mehrez Belkhechine has reached a new level. The central defender is playing more on his strengths (passing, reading the game) by channeling his aggression in the duel. Furthermore, Rivière is in good physical shape in midfield, while Bennekrouf has quickly found his feet. "I would like to have Andriantiana back, who was injured for a long time last season, because at 100%, he is a top defender. The same goes for Nouri, a creative midfielder who plays well and who still needs four or five weeks," Sadani said.

The additions of the experienced Beneddine, Soilihi, Bouameur, and Vinci should help solidify the defense. As should the addition of Touré in midfield. A puzzle to put together, but the coaching staff is starting from less ground than a year ago to the day. "It's all a question of balance and animation. Last season, the switch to a 3-5-2 proved successful, but I'm not set in stone on that. I'm more of a 4-3-3 fan. We'll be able to adapt during the match or depending on the context and current form. It's interesting," he concludes. The stage is set and the hopes are real.

During Goal FC's troubled season last season, Kamel Bennekrouf did more than hold his own. With 16 goals and 5 assists, he almost pulled off the miracle of keeping his club in the league despite a first-team withdrawal and penalty points. It was therefore a confident striker who arrived on the scene.

"At first, I wanted to stay at Goal FC, but we didn't manage to reach an agreement. I had contacts with National clubs but the Toulon project convinced me. The speeches of Claude Joye and coach Momo Sadani tipped the balance. There is a lot of expectation here and I like that. I even need it," he explains.

Bennekrouf already knows the Var after a more than decent half-season at Hyères 83 FC with Boudjellal. His versatile profile and his experience, at the height of his 34 years which he will soon celebrate, should be significant assets. "My preferred position is on the wing. But I can also play in support of a center forward to create a connection. I was well received in Toulon. My teammates came to help me when I moved in. It's a sign that doesn't lie. Frankly, there is everything to succeed here. I can't wait to get started," concludes this "shuddering" player.