Dj Vnyash
Gor Mahia’s head coach, Leonardo Neiva, is confident that the Kenyan champions will stage a strong comeback in the CAF Champions League return leg after their 1-0 defeat to Al Merreikh in the qualification stage in Juba, South Sudan, on Sunday.
The two teams are set to clash in a crucial and decisive match at Nyayo Stadium on August 25, with the aggregate winner advancing to face reigning champions Al Ahly in the first round.
In a post-match interview, Neiva praised his team’s determined effort but criticized their failure to convert clear opportunities, including a missed chance in the final moments of the intense match.
“We could have easily taken the lead in Juba, but our forwards missed several chances during the game. This is something we need to improve on before the return fixture. We also missed our key striker, Benson Omalla, who had an excellent season in the league last year,” Neiva said.
“We can’t afford to be complacent in a match of this magnitude. The players need to step up and show their quality as Gor Mahia players. Mediocre performances are not an option.”
Despite the setback, the Brazilian coach remains optimistic that the record-holding Kenyan champions will recover and advance to the next round of the competition.
“We are a big team with a strong history on the continental stage. I saw a lot of potential in the players, including the new signings.
“We have studied our opponents closely and know what we need to do to beat them on Sunday.”
Neiva also urged the team’s loyal fans to pack Nyayo Stadium and support the Kenyan giants in their quest for victory.
“We were impressed by the large number of fans who came to support us away from home. We expect an even bigger turnout at home,” he said.
“They shouldn’t be discouraged by today’s result. We’ll give them something to celebrate next week.”
Neiva fielded a strong lineup, including Ghanaian midfielder Enock Morrison, who made a notable debut with an impressive performance.
