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Gor Mahia head coach has expressed concerns over opponent tactics after a challenging match in the CAF Champions League.
Gor Mahia head coach Leonardo Neiva openly criticized the South Sudanese team El Merreikh Bentiu for their time-wasting tactics during their first-leg encounter in the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
The match, which took place on Sunday afternoon in Juba, ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for the Kenyan champions, setting a challenging tone for the upcoming second leg at the Nyayo National Stadium.
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The critical match saw Mohamed Musa score the decisive goal for El Merreikh in the 63rd minute, shifting the game's momentum and introducing tactics that Neiva believes marred the spirit of the competition.
"In the first half, the game was competitive and fair for both teams. However, the second half painted a different picture. Regrettably, I have to express concerns that are not favorable for African football. This type of game, where teams cease to play aggressively after scoring, particularly if the team from South Sudan scores first, essentially ends the match. They show no interest in continuing the game, which is disappointing for the spirit of African football," Neiva expressed.
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19:00 - 18.08.2024
Gor Mahia fall to a narrow defeat to determined South Sudan's El Merreikh Bentiu
K'Ogalo have been left with a mountain to climb ahead of the return leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
Neiva's frustration was palpable as he discussed the conduct of El Merreikh after taking the lead.
"Today, the necessity for additional time became apparent. We needed at least seven minutes, not just four. Four minutes is insufficient—it's almost a mockery. Congratulations to El Merreikh, but the second leg will take place in Nairobi. We anticipate a different approach to the game there. I was really taken aback by the outdated style of play observed today. The game should be won fairly on the field—no underhanded tactics or unfair play," he added.
Despite the setbacks, Neiva noted some positive aspects of his team's performance, particularly in the first half, and remains hopeful about the return leg.
"Despite this, there were positives from the first half where they played very well. My hope is that we elevate the style of play going forward. In the second half, after they scored the first goal, Merriekh resorted to long balls. We adjusted our tactics slightly and pushed forward. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to score, but we are prepared for the next game and ready to adapt our strategy," he noted.
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11:23 - 17.08.2024
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The upcoming rematch in Nairobi promises to be a heated encounter as Gor Mahia seeks to overturn the one-goal deficit and secure their place in the next round of the competition.
The aggregate winner of this tie will face the reigning and record champions Al Ahly, with a coveted spot in the group stage at stake.
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