Despite suffering heartbreak in the MFA Cup final against La Cure Waves on Sunday, ASPL 2000 can look ahead with renewed optimism following a rebuilding process that began earlier this year. Backed by a youthful squad and a renewed vision, the Port Louis club is once again aiming high, with a qualification in the African competition next season.

At the Côte d’Or Stadium, ASPL 2000 came agonisingly close to lifting silverware after pushing the newly crowned league champions all the way in an intense and closely contested final. After a 1-1 draw, the capital side eventually fell short in a dramatic penalty shoot-out (10-9). Yet beyond the disappointment, the performance against the dominant force of Mauritian football this season highlighted the club’s steady return to competitiveness.

“When we took charge of the club at the beginning of the year, ASPL 2000 was hovering around the relegation zone,” recalled assistant coach Clarel Beeharry. Together with head coach Sarjoo Gowreesungkur, the technical staff launched an ambitious rebuilding project focused on both sporting performance and discipline.

A commitment to youth became evident through the integration of several talents from the Liverpool Academy setup, including Stewel Beeharry, Chris Vieille, Nigel Marday, Yanish Raugutty, Miguel Marday and Annehel Anna. Their arrival injected fresh energy into the squad, helping the team develop a more structured and intense style of play.

The coaching philosophy implemented by the staff is based on clear principles. “At Liverpool, I learned that a player must be assessed on five criteria: ambition, technique, tactics, mentality and dignity,” said Clarel Beeharry. The objective is to build a balanced and competitive group capable of performing consistently over time.

Beyond results, ASPL 2000 also hopes to reconnect with its supporters by offering attractive football. “We want to play high-intensity football. We cannot expect fans to come and watch dull matches,” insisted the assistant coach, underlining the club’s ambition to rediscover its identity and traditions.

With a rejuvenated core now in place, ASPL 2000 is already looking ahead. The club is considering targeted reinforcements aimed at strengthening the squad without disrupting its balance and chemistry. Participation in the CAF Confederation Cup next season has further fuelled ambitions within the camp. “With good preparation, we believe we can perform well in Africa,” concluded Clarel Beeharry.

After a difficult start to the season, ASPL 2000 now appears to be rebuilding not only a competitive team, but also a long-term project capable of restoring the club’s place among the country’s leading football institutions.