DAR ES SALAAAM: AZAM FC’s Coach Youssouph Dabo has expressed optimism about their prospects to advance in CAF Champions League next round following a narrow 1-0 win against Rwandan side APR.
The two sides will meet in the second leg at Amahoro Stadium on Saturday in Kigali, Rwanda.
Speaking after the match, the coach noted: “I think my players were in a hurry to score early,” the coach said.
“When the goals did not come quickly, the pressure mounted.
At half-time, I advised them to remain patient.
It’s the first leg and we have the second match in Rwanda.
I stressed the importance of taking their time and capitalising on any scoring opportunities.”
He highlighted the challenge posed by APR’s strong defensive organisation.
“APR is a tough team with a well-organised defence that does not concede many goals.
The situation will change when we play in Rwanda, where they will have to open up their game, which might create opportunities for us.”
The coach emphasised the need for mental resilience and maintaining their footballing standards.
“We need to stay mentally strong and continue to play our game.
We have the quality to win in Rwanda and we must focus on that.”ds
With the first leg advantage in hand, Azam FC will look to build on their performance as they prepare for the return match against APR in Rwanda.
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On his part, APR coach Darko Novic said all is not lost for them as they still have another chance to make things right at their backyard in Rwanda.
“As I said before the match that we were playing against one of the strong teams in this part of Africa, they played good football and netted their goal through a penalty.
“We have a return leg at home and this is our main focus now, the most important thing is on how we will get back so that in the end, we can earn a chance of progressing int