Harambee Stars midfielder inspires Elfsborg to victory in Sweden on return to line up

Harambee Stars midfielder inspires Elfsborg to victory in Sweden on return to line up

Mark Kinyanjui 21:59 - 11.08.2024

Ouma featured in the entire match from the base of midfield on his return to the side as they beat GAIS 2-1.

Kenyan midfielder Timothy Ouma played a pivotal role in IF Elfsborg's 2-1 victory against GAIS in a closely contested Allsvenskan match at Borås Arena on Sunday.

Ouma, who missed the side’s Europa League qualifier against Rijeka earlier in the week, made a strong case for his inclusion in the upcoming fixtures with an impressive performance.

Elfsborg started the match on the front foot, quickly gaining control of the game. Their early pressure paid off in the 8th minute when Michael Baidoo finished off a well-worked move, putting the home side 1-0 up. However, GAIS responded swiftly, equalizing just six minutes later through a well-placed header from a corner.

Despite the setback, Ouma and his midfield partner Besfort Zeneli orchestrated the play from the center of the park, helping Elfsborg regain control. Their efforts were rewarded in the 30th minute when an own goal by a GAIS defender, following a cross from Sebastian Holmén, restored Elfsborg’s lead.

The second half saw Elfsborg maintaining their momentum, with Ouma continuing to influence the game with his creativity and vision. The match took a turn in the 66th minute when Ahmed Qasem received his second yellow card, leaving Elfsborg to defend their narrow lead with ten men.

Ouma's composed play was crucial in helping Elfsborg withstand the late pressure from GAIS, as the team showed resilience to hold onto their lead. Despite the visitors' best efforts, the Elfsborg defense, led by goalkeeper Isak Pettersson, held firm.

The match concluded in dramatic fashion, with GAIS’s goalkeeper being sent off in stoppage time for handling the ball outside the box as he tried to prevent a counter-attack led by Baidoo. Shortly after, the final whistle blew, confirming Elfsborg's hard-fought victory.

This win sees Elfsborg continue their strong form in the Allsvenskan, with Timothy Ouma's standout performance proving his importance to the team as they push for further success this season.

In Scotland, Jonah Ayunga came on as a substitute as St.Mirren were battered 3-1 by Aberdeen in their second clash of the season.

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