Owino has explained how new Brazilian coach Leo Neiva has prepared the side to face Corinthians in the Coal City Cup which will take place in Nigeria next week.
Gor Mahia players are eagerly anticipating their clash with Brazilian giants Corinthians FC in their opening match of the Coal City International Cup on August 2 in Enugu, Nigeria.
While most of the players have never seen Corinthians play or understand their philosophy, Gor Mahia's new Brazilian coach, Leonardo Neiva, is believed to have a thorough understanding of the team’s style of play.
Neiva, appointed last month to replace Northern Irishman Johnathan McKinstry, has brought a Samba touch to Gor Mahia that centre-back Sylvester Owino believes will be crucial in securing results against Corinthians.
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"We had not grasped his philosophy before we travelled to the Kagame Cup, but we now understand what he requires from us. I am sure he will equip us well before the game because he knows them inside out," Owino told SportsBoom.
Owino, a two-time league winner with Gor Mahia, is confident that Neiva's knowledge and strategic approach will give the team an edge in the tournament.
"We have to get it right in Nigeria to boost our morale ahead of the CAF Champions League. Our preparations have been great, and I feel we will outdo ourselves in the tournament," added the former Kakamega Homeboyz player.
The Coal City International Cup offers Gor Mahia a perfect opportunity to redeem themselves following a poor performance in the recently concluded CECAFA Kagame Cup, where the club failed to win a single game.
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Analysis : Coach Leo Neiva's 'samba-style' vision for Gor Mahia as evidenced in CECAFA outing
Gor Mahia did not have a good campaign at the CECAFA Kagame Cup under new coach Leo Neiva, but is there light at the end of the tunnel with the coach looking to play Brazilian-esque 'samba style' football?
The tournament also serves as a platform to polish weak areas and test the team's preparedness for the 2024/25 CAF Champions League qualifiers.
Sylvester Owino emphasized that good results in Nigeria will be a significant morale booster for the team as they prepare for the CAF Champions League.
Gor Mahia will play South Sudanese champions El Merrikh Bentiu in the First Preliminary round. The winner on aggregate will face record champions Al Ahly of Egypt in the second round. Gor Mahia are making a return to the competition after three years in the cold.