Newsletter
AFC Warszawa - April
A word from the manager
March brought a long-awaited return to league action for The Knaves. We played the first two games of the spring round, taking four points, scoring 11, and conceding 3 in a strong start to the round.
Olimpia II Warszawa were first up, and despite having some good young players, they started the game with no substitutes, played quite a large part of the first half with ten men, and could not stop us from almost scoring double figures for the first time in our history. Centre-forward Franek Masny made his debut off the bench in this game, wasting no time getting off the mark for his new club, scoring the ninth goal of the game on 87’. Alessandro Puerini also picked up where he left off in the autumn round with a hat-trick. It’s generally a disappointment to see such well-established teams from Warsaw turn up in such a disorganized fashion, and although we were happy with the three points and a strong start to the round, in truth, we were left hopeful of more meaningful and tougher tests ahead.
One duly arrived the following week. SEMP II Ursynów had enjoyed a good start to the round too, beating Agape II Białołęka 5-1 in their first game. The match report and highlights are below, but what felt like two points dropped on the day may well turn out to be a good point in the long run. SEMP have since gone on to beat promotion-chasing Komorów 5-0, and were they not starting the round 12 points behind us, I’m sure they’d be in the promotion hunt themselves; they may well go on to win the vast majority of their remaining games.
April will see us play Agape II Białołęka, who now sit above us in second place having played a game more, as well as a game against fifth-placed Kamionek this coming weekend, Saturday, 11th April at 17:00. Remember all of our games are streamed live on YouTube, and it is great to see so many of you tuning in to watch—the lads on the pitch and all of us behind the scenes appreciate your continued support.
March brought a long-awaited return to league action for The Knaves. We played the first two games of the spring round, taking four points, scoring 11, and conceding 3 in a strong start to the round.
Olimpia II Warszawa were first up, and despite having some good young players, they started the game with no substitutes, played quite a large part of the first half with ten men, and could not stop us from almost scoring double figures for the first time in our history. Centre-forward Franek Masny made his debut off the bench in this game, wasting no time getting off the mark for his new club, scoring the ninth goal of the game on 87’. Alessandro Puerini also picked up where he left off in the autumn round with a hat-trick. It’s generally a disappointment to see such well-established teams from Warsaw turn up in such a disorganized fashion, and although we were happy with the three points and a strong start to the round, in truth, we were left hopeful of more meaningful and tougher tests ahead.
One duly arrived the following week. SEMP II Ursynów had enjoyed a good start to the round too, beating Agape II Białołęka 5-1 in their first game. The match report and highlights are below, but what felt like two points dropped on the day may well turn out to be a good point in the long run. SEMP have since gone on to beat promotion-chasing Komorów 5-0, and were they not starting the round 12 points behind us, I’m sure they’d be in the promotion hunt themselves; they may well go on to win the vast majority of their remaining games.
April will see us play Agape II Białołęka, who now sit above us in second place having played a game more, as well as a game against fifth-placed Kamionek this coming weekend, Saturday, 11th April at 17:00. Remember all of our games are streamed live on YouTube, and it is great to see so many of you tuning in to watch—the lads on the pitch and all of us behind the scenes appreciate your continued support.
match reports
22/03/2025
V Olimpia Warszaswa II (a)
Hutnik, Marymoncka 42 - pitch B
Full Time: 9-1
Scorers: Molina, Cara (pen), Peurini x3, Sauvard, Danilczuk x2, Masny
The snow had finally thawed and after more than four long, cold, dark months it was good to get back playing for points again. The Knaves were quick out the traps and seven first half goals without reply saw the game over as a contest by half time. This gave the coaching team a chance to give minutes to all substitutes and revert to a back 3, a formation AFC have been working on during the winter.
A Hugo Molina header from a corner started the scoring before Marco Cara doubled the lead a minute later after a foul on Alessandro Peurini gave the referee no choice but to award a penalty which was duly dispatched. Peurini then became goalscorer himself, netting the first of a 1st half hat-trick. Further strikes before the interval came from Clement Sauvard and Bartek Danilczuk. Olimpia could well have capitulated but a spirited 2nd half display resulted in only two more goals for the visitors, a second for Danilczuk and a goal on debut for Franek Masny. Unfortunately a clean sheet was not kept as the hosts netted with two minutes to go.
With harder tests to come it was pleasing to start the spring round of matches with a win, no injuries and the full matchday squad getting time on the pitch
Watch the highlights here
28/03/2025
V SEMP II (h)
Hutnik, Marymoncka 42 - pitch B
Full Time: 2-2
Scorers: Cara (pen), Sauvard
It was back to Hutnik for the second week in a row for the fixture with SEMP II who had started the spring round with a fantastic 5-1 victory against promotion hopefuls Agape II. The Knaves had to make one change with Sacha Beubry-Ziejinsky coming in for the unavailable Emre Colakoglu which saw Clement Sauvard regain a more regular central role.
Chances in the first half were low on quantity and quality and although AFC kept probing around the SEMP goal, breaking down a well structured defence wasn’t easy. Slightly against the run of play a SEMP corner wasn’t properly dealt with and the ball ended up back with the taker who bobbled the ball past goalkeeper Igor Wolański and in off the far post. 0-1 is how the half finished.
With instructions from coach Neil Riley still fresh in the AFC player’s ears, they came out on the front foot. Just over five minutes after the interval and after good hold-up play, Alessando Peurini was brought down in the penalty area and Marco Cara scored his second penalty in as many matches. Not long after Sauvard reacted the quickest in a crowded penalty area to hammer the ball into the net to give AFC the lead.
With AFC now attacking in numbers the match’s most controversial incident occurred. Having been booked for dissent minutes earlier Peurini was then adjudged to have simulated contact while trying to win a second penalty and was shown a second yellow card and ordered off the pitch. Whilst it looked a harsh decision the referee was not changing his mind and The Kanves were down to 10 men. Although not overrun by a SEMP team who now had a player advantage an equaliser wasn't too long in coming. Both teams could have scored a winner but no further goals saw the match end 2-2.
Although disappointment was clearly showing amongst the AFC players and staff at the final whistle it may yet prove to be a very important point come June.
22/03/2025
V Olimpia Warszaswa II (a)
Hutnik, Marymoncka 42 - pitch B
Full Time: 9-1
Scorers: Molina, Cara (pen), Peurini x3, Sauvard, Danilczuk x2, Masny
The snow had finally thawed and after more than four long, cold, dark months it was good to get back playing for points again. The Knaves were quick out the traps and seven first half goals without reply saw the game over as a contest by half time. This gave the coaching team a chance to give minutes to all substitutes and revert to a back 3, a formation AFC have been working on during the winter.
A Hugo Molina header from a corner started the scoring before Marco Cara doubled the lead a minute later after a foul on Alessandro Peurini gave the referee no choice but to award a penalty which was duly dispatched. Peurini then became goalscorer himself, netting the first of a 1st half hat-trick. Further strikes before the interval came from Clement Sauvard and Bartek Danilczuk. Olimpia could well have capitulated but a spirited 2nd half display resulted in only two more goals for the visitors, a second for Danilczuk and a goal on debut for Franek Masny. Unfortunately a clean sheet was not kept as the hosts netted with two minutes to go.
With harder tests to come it was pleasing to start the spring round of matches with a win, no injuries and the full matchday squad getting time on the pitch
Watch the highlights here
28/03/2025
V SEMP II (h)
Hutnik, Marymoncka 42 - pitch B
Full Time: 2-2
Scorers: Cara (pen), Sauvard
It was back to Hutnik for the second week in a row for the fixture with SEMP II who had started the spring round with a fantastic 5-1 victory against promotion hopefuls Agape II. The Knaves had to make one change with Sacha Beubry-Ziejinsky coming in for the unavailable Emre Colakoglu which saw Clement Sauvard regain a more regular central role.
Chances in the first half were low on quantity and quality and although AFC kept probing around the SEMP goal, breaking down a well structured defence wasn’t easy. Slightly against the run of play a SEMP corner wasn’t properly dealt with and the ball ended up back with the taker who bobbled the ball past goalkeeper Igor Wolański and in off the far post. 0-1 is how the half finished.
With instructions from coach Neil Riley still fresh in the AFC player’s ears, they came out on the front foot. Just over five minutes after the interval and after good hold-up play, Alessando Peurini was brought down in the penalty area and Marco Cara scored his second penalty in as many matches. Not long after Sauvard reacted the quickest in a crowded penalty area to hammer the ball into the net to give AFC the lead.
With AFC now attacking in numbers the match’s most controversial incident occurred. Having been booked for dissent minutes earlier Peurini was then adjudged to have simulated contact while trying to win a second penalty and was shown a second yellow card and ordered off the pitch. Whilst it looked a harsh decision the referee was not changing his mind and The Kanves were down to 10 men. Although not overrun by a SEMP team who now had a player advantage an equaliser wasn't too long in coming. Both teams could have scored a winner but no further goals saw the match end 2-2.
Although disappointment was clearly showing amongst the AFC players and staff at the final whistle it may yet prove to be a very important point come June.
Watch the highlights here
This month, we sat down with three of our players to get an insight into their thoughts on training, match day, areas they want to improve and AFC overall.
Noah Delophont 🇫🇷 Marco Cara 🇮🇹 Youssef Khalid 🇪🇬
28/03/2025
V SEMP II (h)
Hutnik, Marymoncka 42 - pitch B
Full Time: 2-2
Scorers: Cara (pen), Sauvard
It was back to Hutnik for the second week in a row for the fixture with SEMP II who had started the spring round with a fantastic 5-1 victory against promotion hopefuls Agape II. The Knaves had to make one change with Sacha Beubry-Ziejinsky coming in for the unavailable Emre Colakoglu which saw Clement Sauvard regain a more regular central role.
Chances in the first half were low on quantity and quality and although AFC kept probing around the SEMP goal, breaking down a well structured defence wasn’t easy. Slightly against the run of play a SEMP corner wasn’t properly dealt with and the ball ended up back with the taker who bobbled the ball past goalkeeper Igor Wolański and in off the far post. 0-1 is how the half finished.
With instructions from coach Neil Riley still fresh in the AFC player’s ears, they came out on the front foot. Just over five minutes after the interval and after good hold-up play, Alessando Peurini was brought down in the penalty area and Marco Cara scored his second penalty in as many matches. Not long after Sauvard reacted the quickest in a crowded penalty area to hammer the ball into the net to give AFC the lead.
With AFC now attacking in numbers the match’s most controversial incident occurred. Having been booked for dissent minutes earlier Peurini was then adjudged to have simulated contact while trying to win a second penalty and was shown a second yellow card and ordered off the pitch. Whilst it looked a harsh decision the referee was not changing his mind and The Kanves were down to 10 men. Although not overrun by a SEMP team who now had a player advantage an equaliser wasn't too long in coming. Both teams could have scored a winner but no further goals saw the match end 2-2.
Although disappointment was clearly showing amongst the AFC players and staff at the final whistle it may yet prove to be a very important point come June.
Watch the highlights here
This month, we sat down with three of our players to get an insight into their thoughts on training, match day, areas they want to improve and AFC overall.
Noah Delophont 🇫🇷 Marco Cara 🇮🇹 Youssef Khalid 🇪🇬
Meet the Players
This month, we sat down with three of our players to get an insight into their thoughts on training, match day, areas they want to improve and AFC overall.
Noah Delophont 🇫🇷 Marco Cara 🇮🇹 Youssef Khalid 🇪🇬
How long have you played for AFC?
Noah: I joined the club in the 2023-24 season, so I'm now in my third season. I've been with AFC for about two and a half years.
Youssef: A little more than 3 years now I think.
Marco: I joined AFC in November 2024, and played the first match after the winter break, in March 2025
Which position or positions do you play in?
Noah: I'm a centre midfielder, playing mainly as a defensive midfielder—the number six role.
Youssef: CB/LB
Marco: I play left back usually, and sometimes left midfielder
What do you like most about AFC training?
Noah: There are lots of great things about training here. First, we have a very competitive environment that pushes everyone to improve, both individually and as a team. The atmosphere is brilliant too—we have a really strong group that gets along well. And I love that we work on different aspects of the game, especially strategy and tactical understanding. It's a relaxed atmosphere when it needs to be, but competitive even in small games, and that balance helps us all develop.
Youssef: The consistency from players being there and on time every week and the coaches changing types of training most of the time so there is always something new.
Marco: I really like how the coaches prepare the training, in terms of intensity and tactical exercises
What is your usual pre-match meal?
Noah: Pasta with jambon and melted cheese on top. It's simple, reliable, and gets the job done before a match.
Youssef: Oatmeal with some fruits and peanut butter.
Marco: If the match is in the morning, normally I eat some bread with fruit jam and some fruits like apples. If the match is in the afternoon or evening, I eat rice with some tuna or chicken.
Do you have a favourite moment playing for AFC so far?
Noah: My first goal this season definitely stands out. After spending two seasons with the club waiting for that moment, it felt really special. There have been lots of other great moments too, but that one is particularly memorable.
Youssef: My first goal during a friendly 2 years ago 😄.
Marco: My favourite moment playing for AFC is for sure my first league match, very tough match, but we managed to win.
Which area of your game do you think has improved the most since you started playing with AFC?
Noah: Honestly, I've improved across the board—technically, tactically, and in my reading of the game. The biggest improvement has been tactically and positionally—my understanding of the game, where to be, what to anticipate, and how to position myself effectively. I'm far from perfect, but I can definitely see the progress in all these areas.
Youssef: My overall understanding of the game and the positions I play. Also, my defending capabilities and confidence.
Marco: I think the area of my game I improved more is the capacity to read the moments in the game, what is needed from me during the game. For example, when it's important to stay little more defensive, or when it's needed more offensive push.
Which area of your game do you want to improve in the second half of the season? And why?
Noah: My mindset is the number one priority. I'm a very competitive person and I love that aspect of football, but sometimes that competitiveness can tip into fear or tension during matches. I make wrong decisions or my touch suffers because I'm playing with anxiety rather than confidence. What I want to work on is managing that intensity so I can feel the competitiveness and importance of each game—especially with our promotion push—without letting it paralyze me. I want to play with composure so I can fully express my technical, tactical, and physical potential. Of course, I'll keep developing technically as well, but the mental side is my main focus right now.
Youssef: My match fitness to be able to endure full 90 mins at the same level.
Marco: Even we are training very good on the physical aspect, I think that I need to push my self to be more fit in terms of endurance and runs, because the physical level in this league sometimes is very high.
Best advice a member of the AFC coaching team has given you?
Noah: The main one is about using my physicality and imposing myself on the pitch. I'm 1.95 metres tall, so I should play to that advantage more confidently. I sometimes forget what my body can do for me in a match. I've also gotten great advice on body
Youssef: When Trev told about defending against a faster winger to leave some space so I can catch up with him and also on 1-1 defending to close the gap between me and the player to avoid free shot or free cross.
Marco: The best advice I received from coaching staff are: stay positive, enjoy the game, and most important, give the 100% of me in every training and match.
Music on or music off in the changing room before games?
Noah: Definitely music on, but through a speaker. Music sets my mood and helps me get into the right headspace before we go out. I wouldn't use headphones though—that feels too isolating. I want to be part of the collective atmosphere, getting everyone ready together. That shared energy before kickoff is important to me.
Youssef: On.
Marco: I always had music off in the changing room before the games during my career, but I like also music on.
Who is the hardest working player in the team?
Noah: I'd say either Clement or Patrick. When I think of hard work, I mean that relentless pressing and ball recovery—the unglamorous stuff where you might fail several times but keep going anyway. Clement keeps pressing even in the toughest moments, and Patrick is brilliant at harassing opponents and never giving up on winning the ball back.
Youssef: Noah - generally i see him as the most developed player in the team since he joined.
Marco: For me in our team we have a lot of players that are an example of hard work, and I really love this team also for that. But if I need to chose one player I go with Clement, an amazing example of a guy who gives his all on the pitch and in training, never holding back. He's the first to go for pressing and also the first to provide emotional support to the team.
What is the funniest or strangest thing that has happened at training or in an AFC match?
Noah: There was this funny moment before a match 2 seasons ago. We had a thin squad that day, so we barely had enough players. One of the lads had a late night and didn't realize he was actually starting. He showed up just ten or fifteen minutes before kickoff thinking he'd be on the bench. The whole situation was pretty amusing.
Youssef: A player stretching so hard during training that he let out an unpleasant sound!
Marco: The funniest moment at AFC is for sure when anyone who's been late to practice or a game has to "spin the wheel" and figure out what kind of punishment they've been given. It's a really fun moment because anything can happen to you (even having to sing in front of everyone).
What has been your toughest AFC match or moment so far? Why?
Noah: Mentally, the end of last season was tough because there was so much pressure around winning matches to secure promotion. If I had to pick one specific game, it was against a team who were were first or second in the table. We knew we had to beat them to ensure promotion, and we didn't manage it. There was enormous tension during that match, and losing it—especially knowing what it meant—was paralyzing. It was very hard.
Youssef: This season losing against Ursus then the week after drawing against Nowa Wies.
Marco: The toughest moment was for sure the match we lost against Ursus this year because it's a young team and very strong team. It was very tough in terms of intensity and quality football.
And finally....
In one sentence, describe why you would recommend any player to join AFC.
Noah: AFC offers the perfect blend of a great, welcoming group and genuine competitive drive—you get both friendship and the fight to win promotion, and that's something really special.
Youssef: This is the most diverse group you can find anywhere in Warsaw, guaranteed you will have fun and meet very interesting people and at the same time you will be working very hard to achieve something great with a group of good friends and family.
Marco: I highly recommend joining AFC because we are like a little family. Everyone trusts each other and we push each other to reach a better level every training and match. After almost 15 years playing football at this level, I never had coaches as well prepared as Neil and Trevor and I am learning a lot from them. Last but not least I would also like to thank all the guys behind the scenes like Rich, Ciaran and Will, who help us and organize everything in an excellent way.
Thanks lads!is back, time to vote for your goal of th
How long have you played for AFC?
Noah: I joined the club in the 2023-24 season, so I'm now in my third season. I've been with AFC for about two and a half years.
Youssef: A little more than 3 years now I think.
Marco: I joined AFC in November 2024, and played the first match after the winter break, in March 2025
Which position or positions do you play in?
Noah: I'm a centre midfielder, playing mainly as a defensive midfielder—the number six role.
Youssef: CB/LB
Marco: I play left back usually, and sometimes left midfielder
What do you like most about AFC training?
Noah: There are lots of great things about training here. First, we have a very competitive environment that pushes everyone to improve, both individually and as a team. The atmosphere is brilliant too—we have a really strong group that gets along well. And I love that we work on different aspects of the game, especially strategy and tactical understanding. It's a relaxed atmosphere when it needs to be, but competitive even in small games, and that balance helps us all develop.
Youssef: The consistency from players being there and on time every week and the coaches changing types of training most of the time so there is always something new.
Marco: I really like how the coaches prepare the training, in terms of intensity and tactical exercises
What is your usual pre-match meal?
Noah: Pasta with jambon and melted cheese on top. It's simple, reliable, and gets the job done before a match.
Youssef: Oatmeal with some fruits and peanut butter.
Marco: If the match is in the morning, normally I eat some bread with fruit jam and some fruits like apples. If the match is in the afternoon or evening, I eat rice with some tuna or chicken.
Do you have a favourite moment playing for AFC so far?
Noah: My first goal this season definitely stands out. After spending two seasons with the club waiting for that moment, it felt really special. There have been lots of other great moments too, but that one is particularly memorable.
Youssef: My first goal during a friendly 2 years ago 😄.
Marco: My favourite moment playing for AFC is for sure my first league match, very tough match, but we managed to win.
Which area of your game do you think has improved the most since you started playing with AFC?
Noah: Honestly, I've improved across the board—technically, tactically, and in my reading of the game. The biggest improvement has been tactically and positionally—my understanding of the game, where to be, what to anticipate, and how to position myself effectively. I'm far from perfect, but I can definitely see the progress in all these areas.
Youssef: My overall understanding of the game and the positions I play. Also, my defending capabilities and confidence.
Marco: I think the area of my game I improved more is the capacity to read the moments in the game, what is needed from me during the game. For example, when it's important to stay little more defensive, or when it's needed more offensive push.
Which area of your game do you want to improve in the second half of the season? And why?
Noah: My mindset is the number one priority. I'm a very competitive person and I love that aspect of football, but sometimes that competitiveness can tip into fear or tension during matches. I make wrong decisions or my touch suffers because I'm playing with anxiety rather than confidence. What I want to work on is managing that intensity so I can feel the competitiveness and importance of each game—especially with our promotion push—without letting it paralyze me. I want to play with composure so I can fully express my technical, tactical, and physical potential. Of course, I'll keep developing technically as well, but the mental side is my main focus right now.
Youssef: My match fitness to be able to endure full 90 mins at the same level.
Marco: Even we are training very good on the physical aspect, I think that I need to push my self to be more fit in terms of endurance and runs, because the physical level in this league sometimes is very high.
Best advice a member of the AFC coaching team has given you?
Noah: The main one is about using my physicality and imposing myself on the pitch. I'm 1.95 metres tall, so I should play to that advantage more confidently. I sometimes forget what my body can do for me in a match. I've also gotten great advice on body
Youssef: When Trev told about defending against a faster winger to leave some space so I can catch up with him and also on 1-1 defending to close the gap between me and the player to avoid free shot or free cross.
Marco: The best advice I received from coaching staff are: stay positive, enjoy the game, and most important, give the 100% of me in every training and match.
Music on or music off in the changing room before games?
Noah: Definitely music on, but through a speaker. Music sets my mood and helps me get into the right headspace before we go out. I wouldn't use headphones though—that feels too isolating. I want to be part of the collective atmosphere, getting everyone ready together. That shared energy before kickoff is important to me.
Youssef: On.
Marco: I always had music off in the changing room before the games during my career, but I like also music on.
Who is the hardest working player in the team?
Noah: I'd say either Clement or Patrick. When I think of hard work, I mean that relentless pressing and ball recovery—the unglamorous stuff where you might fail several times but keep going anyway. Clement keeps pressing even in the toughest moments, and Patrick is brilliant at harassing opponents and never giving up on winning the ball back.
Youssef: Noah - generally i see him as the most developed player in the team since he joined.
Marco: For me in our team we have a lot of players that are an example of hard work, and I really love this team also for that. But if I need to chose one player I go with Clement, an amazing example of a guy who gives his all on the pitch and in training, never holding back. He's the first to go for pressing and also the first to provide emotional support to the team.
What is the funniest or strangest thing that has happened at training or in an AFC match?
Noah: There was this funny moment before a match 2 seasons ago. We had a thin squad that day, so we barely had enough players. One of the lads had a late night and didn't realize he was actually starting. He showed up just ten or fifteen minutes before kickoff thinking he'd be on the bench. The whole situation was pretty amusing.
Youssef: A player stretching so hard during training that he let out an unpleasant sound!
Marco: The funniest moment at AFC is for sure when anyone who's been late to practice or a game has to "spin the wheel" and figure out what kind of punishment they've been given. It's a really fun moment because anything can happen to you (even having to sing in front of everyone).
What has been your toughest AFC match or moment so far? Why?
Noah: Mentally, the end of last season was tough because there was so much pressure around winning matches to secure promotion. If I had to pick one specific game, it was against a team who were were first or second in the table. We knew we had to beat them to ensure promotion, and we didn't manage it. There was enormous tension during that match, and losing it—especially knowing what it meant—was paralyzing. It was very hard.
Youssef: This season losing against Ursus then the week after drawing against Nowa Wies.
Marco: The toughest moment was for sure the match we lost against Ursus this year because it's a young team and very strong team. It was very tough in terms of intensity and quality football.
And finally....
In one sentence, describe why you would recommend any player to join AFC.
Noah: AFC offers the perfect blend of a great, welcoming group and genuine competitive drive—you get both friendship and the fight to win promotion, and that's something really special.
Youssef: This is the most diverse group you can find anywhere in Warsaw, guaranteed you will have fun and meet very interesting people and at the same time you will be working very hard to achieve something great with a group of good friends and family.
Marco: I highly recommend joining AFC because we are like a little family. Everyone trusts each other and we push each other to reach a better level every training and match. After almost 15 years playing football at this level, I never had coaches as well prepared as Neil and Trevor and I am learning a lot from them. Last but not least I would also like to thank all the guys behind the scenes like Rich, Ciaran and Will, who help us and organize everything in an excellent way.
Thanks lads!
How long have you played for AFC?
Noah: I joined the club in the 2023-24 season, so I'm now in my third season. I've been with AFC for about two and a half years.
Youssef: A little more than 3 years now I think.
Marco: I joined AFC in November 2024, and played the first match after the winter break, in March 2025
Which position or positions do you play in?
Noah: I'm a centre midfielder, playing mainly as a defensive midfielder—the number six role.
Youssef: CB/LB
Marco: I play left back usually, and sometimes left midfielder
What do you like most about AFC training?
Noah: There are lots of great things about training here. First, we have a very competitive environment that pushes everyone to improve, both individually and as a team. The atmosphere is brilliant too—we have a really strong group that gets along well. And I love that we work on different aspects of the game, especially strategy and tactical understanding. It's a relaxed atmosphere when it needs to be, but competitive even in small games, and that balance helps us all develop.
Youssef: The consistency from players being there and on time every week and the coaches changing types of training most of the time so there is always something new.
Marco: I really like how the coaches prepare the training, in terms of intensity and tactical exercises
What is your usual pre-match meal?
Noah: Pasta with jambon and melted cheese on top. It's simple, reliable, and gets the job done before a match.
Youssef: Oatmeal with some fruits and peanut butter.
Marco: If the match is in the morning, normally I eat some bread with fruit jam and some fruits like apples. If the match is in the afternoon or evening, I eat rice with some tuna or chicken.
Do you have a favourite moment playing for AFC so far?
Noah: My first goal this season definitely stands out. After spending two seasons with the club waiting for that moment, it felt really special. There have been lots of other great moments too, but that one is particularly memorable.
Youssef: My first goal during a friendly 2 years ago 😄.
Marco: My favourite moment playing for AFC is for sure my first league match, very tough match, but we managed to win.
Which area of your game do you think has improved the most since you started playing with AFC?
Noah: Honestly, I've improved across the board—technically, tactically, and in my reading of the game. The biggest improvement has been tactically and positionally—my understanding of the game, where to be, what to anticipate, and how to position myself effectively. I'm far from perfect, but I can definitely see the progress in all these areas.
Youssef: My overall understanding of the game and the positions I play. Also, my defending capabilities and confidence.
Marco: I think the area of my game I improved more is the capacity to read the moments in the game, what is needed from me during the game. For example, when it's important to stay little more defensive, or when it's needed more offensive push.
Which area of your game do you want to improve in the second half of the season? And why?
Noah: My mindset is the number one priority. I'm a very competitive person and I love that aspect of football, but sometimes that competitiveness can tip into fear or tension during matches. I make wrong decisions or my touch suffers because I'm playing with anxiety rather than confidence. What I want to work on is managing that intensity so I can feel the competitiveness and importance of each game—especially with our promotion push—without letting it paralyze me. I want to play with composure so I can fully express my technical, tactical, and physical potential. Of course, I'll keep developing technically as well, but the mental side is my main focus right now.
Youssef: My match fitness to be able to endure full 90 mins at the same level.
Marco: Even we are training very good on the physical aspect, I think that I need to push my self to be more fit in terms of endurance and runs, because the physical level in this league sometimes is very high.
Best advice a member of the AFC coaching team has given you?
Noah: The main one is about using my physicality and imposing myself on the pitch. I'm 1.95 metres tall, so I should play to that advantage more confidently. I sometimes forget what my body can do for me in a match. I've also gotten great advice on body
Youssef: When Trev told about defending against a faster winger to leave some space so I can catch up with him and also on 1-1 defending to close the gap between me and the player to avoid free shot or free cross.
Marco: The best advice I received from coaching staff are: stay positive, enjoy the game, and most important, give the 100% of me in every training and match.
Music on or music off in the changing room before games?
Noah: Definitely music on, but through a speaker. Music sets my mood and helps me get into the right headspace before we go out. I wouldn't use headphones though—that feels too isolating. I want to be part of the collective atmosphere, getting everyone ready together. That shared energy before kickoff is important to me.
Youssef: On.
Marco: I always had music off in the changing room before the games during my career, but I like also music on.
Who is the hardest working player in the team?
Noah: I'd say either Clement or Patrick. When I think of hard work, I mean that relentless pressing and ball recovery—the unglamorous stuff where you might fail several times but keep going anyway. Clement keeps pressing even in the toughest moments, and Patrick is brilliant at harassing opponents and never giving up on winning the ball back.
Youssef: Noah - generally i see him as the most developed player in the team since he joined.
Marco: For me in our team we have a lot of players that are an example of hard work, and I really love this team also for that. But if I need to chose one player I go with Clement, an amazing example of a guy who gives his all on the pitch and in training, never holding back. He's the first to go for pressing and also the first to provide emotional support to the team.
What is the funniest or strangest thing that has happened at training or in an AFC match?
Noah: There was this funny moment before a match 2 seasons ago. We had a thin squad that day, so we barely had enough players. One of the lads had a late night and didn't realize he was actually starting. He showed up just ten or fifteen minutes before kickoff thinking he'd be on the bench. The whole situation was pretty amusing.
Youssef: A player stretching so hard during training that he let out an unpleasant sound!
Marco: The funniest moment at AFC is for sure when anyone who's been late to practice or a game has to "spin the wheel" and figure out what kind of punishment they've been given. It's a really fun moment because anything can happen to you (even having to sing in front of everyone).
What has been your toughest AFC match or moment so far? Why?
Noah: Mentally, the end of last season was tough because there was so much pressure around winning matches to secure promotion. If I had to pick one specific game, it was against a team who were were first or second in the table. We knew we had to beat them to ensure promotion, and we didn't manage it. There was enormous tension during that match, and losing it—especially knowing what it meant—was paralyzing. It was very hard.
Youssef: This season losing against Ursus then the week after drawing against Nowa Wies.
Marco: The toughest moment was for sure the match we lost against Ursus this year because it's a young team and very strong team. It was very tough in terms of intensity and quality football.
And finally....
In one sentence, describe why you would recommend any player to join AFC.
Noah: AFC offers the perfect blend of a great, welcoming group and genuine competitive drive—you get both friendship and the fight to win promotion, and that's something really special.
Youssef: This is the most diverse group you can find anywhere in Warsaw, guaranteed you will have fun and meet very interesting people and at the same time you will be working very hard to achieve something great with a group of good friends and family.
Marco: I highly recommend joining AFC because we are like a little family. Everyone trusts each other and we push each other to reach a better level every training and match. After almost 15 years playing football at this level, I never had coaches as well prepared as Neil and Trevor and I am learning a lot from them. Last but not least I would also like to thank all the guys behind the scenes like Rich, Ciaran and Will, who help us and organize everything in an excellent way.
Thanks lads!
meet the opponents - UKS Kamionek
This month we have a quick look at a team that are in our current division and challenging at the top of the table - UKS Kamionek Warszawa
Home matches: ‘Wembley’ - park Skaryszewski
Home colours: Green and Black
Debuting in Klasa B in 2007 Kamionek have been promoted twice to Klasa A, the most recent being in 2020. Based on the eastern side of the Wisła River and playing their ‘home’ matches on the edge of leafy Park Skaryszewski at the pitch locally known as ‘Wembley’ it’s a perfect location on a warm day.
This season Kamionek have had no trouble scoring goals and currently after the first week of the spring matches have 72 goals. Only top side Ursus III having scored more. This made their 0-0 draw with Amigos in their first match back even more surprising. With goals likely to start flying in again it is probable that they will be pushing for promotion yet again come June.
Previous results:
Season 2025/26
UKS Kamionek Warszawa 1-5 AFC Warszawa
Peurini x2
Sauvard x2
Sodal
This month we have a quick look at a team that are in our current division and challenging at the top of the table - UKS Kamionek Warszawa
Home matches: ‘Wembley’ - park Skaryszewski
Home colours: Green and Black
Debuting in Klasa B in 2007 Kamionek have been promoted twice to Klasa A, the most recent being in 2020. Based on the eastern side of the Wisła River and playing their ‘home’ matches on the edge of leafy Park Skaryszewski at the pitch locally known as ‘Wembley’ it’s a perfect location on a warm day.
This season Kamionek have had no trouble scoring goals and currently after the first week of the spring matches have 72 goals. Only top side Ursus III having scored more. This made their 0-0 draw with Amigos in their first match back even more surprising. With goals likely to start flying in again it is probable that they will be pushing for promotion yet again come June.
Previous results:
Season 2025/26
UKS Kamionek Warszawa 1-5 AFC Warszawa
Peurini x2
Sauvard x2
Sodal
This month we have a quick look at a team that are in our current division and challenging at the top of the table - UKS Kamionek Warszawa
Home matches: ‘Wembley’ - park Skaryszewski
Home colours: Green and Black
Debuting in Klasa B in 2007 Kamionek have been promoted twice to Klasa A, the most recent being in 2020. Based on the eastern side of the Wisła River and playing their ‘home’ matches on the edge of leafy Park Skaryszewski at the pitch locally known as ‘Wembley’ it’s a perfect location on a warm day.
This season Kamionek have had no trouble scoring goals and currently after the first week of the spring matches have 72 goals. Only top side Ursus III having scored more. This made their 0-0 draw with Amigos in their first match back even more surprising. With goals likely to start flying in again it is probable that they will be pushing for promotion yet again come June.
Previous results:
Season 2025/26
UKS Kamionek Warszawa 1-5 AFC Warszawa
Peurini x2
Sauvard x2
Sodal
goal of the month
goal of the autumn round
It is back, time to vote for your goal of the month for March. We have 6 great goals to pick from.
It is back, time to vote for your goal of the month for March. We have 6 great goals to pick from.
how to keep up with us
Meet the Players