Gor Mahia coach is willing to challenge the Champions of African inter clubs
2 min read
Gor Mahia coach Leo Neiva aims to test African champions Al Ahly when the two sides clash in the 2nd preliminary ‘first’ round of Caf Champions League.
Neiva knows the tough challenge awaits him when they clash with Egyptian Giant, as he want to test their character but nonetheless pleaded with his boys to not throw towels.
Neiva said “Now we have a huge test coming up for us against Al Ahly, who are one of the best sides on the African continent. We will play our game against them and put our best effort.
“It will be a huge test of our character and an opportunity for the players to expose themselves at the highest level.”
Kenyan side booked their space after having a steller performance against South Sudan’s El Merreikh Bentiu where they won by a 5-1 at Nyayo Stadium on Sunday.
Players who ignited the spark on the team was Chris Ochieng, John Ochieng, Alphonce Omija and Harambee Stars regular Rooney Onyango, who handed the home side a victory on the day.
Neiva also acknowledged that they should fix one or two things before they can take on the Egyptian Giant.
Nieva said “We are very satisfied and happy about the win today but sometimes, a huge result like this can cover the mistakes within. We still have a lot of work to do…we should not stop. We should increase a lot.
“We controlled majority of the game but in the last 15 minutes, they were in control. We were good on the transition and that’s how we managed to score the two goals.”
Rooney Onyango almost failed to play for the K’Ogalo, where his passport was confiscated at the Italian embassy for allegedly presenting a letter with a forged Football Kenya Federation (FKF) letter head.
The coach was proud and speechless about the display of one of his player Onyango and praised the Kenyan International.
Nieva said “He started the game as a winger…interchanging with Ochuoga. Then in the second half, the opponents put a very physical player on Ochuoga’s flank and so I asked him (Rooney) to drop back because he could deal with him.
“In the second half, I put him at no. 9 because he is a very amazing player…he is a utility player who can fit anywhere. And, as you can see he scored two goals.”
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
