Pyramids FC head coach Rulani Mokwena has singled out two Gor Mahia players whose performances caught his eye during their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round clash.
The two sides locked horns on Sunday, 6 September, with the Egyptian heavyweights securing a 2-0 victory over the record Kenyan champions. Despite the defeat, several Gor Mahia players impressed Mokwena, who was quick to praise their performances.
Goals from Walid El-Khati and Mahmoud Saber were enough to hand Pyramids a comfortable first-leg away victory.“With Onyango (Alpha), there was physicality. I think the midfield and aggressive wing play were okay. They are a good team, and that is why they are Kenyan champions,” said Mokwena.
The South African tactician also heaped praise on Gor Mahia’s central defenders, singling out Frank Odhiambo for his composure and ability to build play from the back.Forgotten Harambee Stars striker leaves Swedish club after six appearances in five years“They also have very solid centre-backs. Odhiambo (Frank) is very solid in the duels, brings the ball so well from the back and connects well with the two midfielders, which is a good thing for them,” he added.
Mokwena, who showcased his detailed understanding of Gor Mahia’s key players, admitted that one selection decision surprised him.“I was surprised that Lesley (Owino) started in midfield. I thought Machaka (Enock) would start as the number 10.”
After scoring twice in the first half, Pyramids adopted a more conservative approach in the second half as Gor Mahia pushed forward in search of a way back into the game.Mokwena explained that his side had to adapt to the demands of the match, while also praising the Gor Mahia supporters for their backing.“You have to play as the game dictates. The fans were so good and pushed Gor Mahia. They did not give up, and so we had to do what the game demanded of us,” he stated.
Read Also: Why Akonnor believes Gor Mahia can overturn 2-0 deficit against Pyramids in Cairo
Reflecting on the match, Mokwena described it as a contest between two quality sides and praised his players and technical team for their preparation.“It was a very good game where two good teams faced each other. I thought the fans were so good and tried to push their team in some moments, and they needed that. But again, congratulations to my club, from the management to the players, because we worked so hard to analyse the opposition and get the result,” he remarked.