ES Setif’s Sedki apologises after opening-day defeat in Algeria

ES Setif head coach Hamada Sedki has apologised to the club’s supporters after his side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Najm Ben Aknoun in their opening match of the Algerian Ligue 1 season.

Sedki said his team created the better chances for much of the game but were let down by poor finishing, while a defensive mistake proved decisive.

“We were more dangerous at many points during the match because we were able to reach the goal, but the finishing was not good, and the goal came from a defensive lapse,” he told reporters after the match.

The former Egypt international said the timing of the goal had a significant impact on his players’ performance.

“After the goal, there was a significant drop in the players’ performance. The goal came at a critical time and made the comeback more difficult for the players.”

Sedki also revealed that the atmosphere inside the stadium made it difficult for him to communicate with his players during the closing stages.

“I couldn’t get my instructions across to the players because of the noise of the crowd,” he said.

“I spoke to the substitutes who came on about pressing from the front, but time was short, and the goal came at a crucial moment.”

Despite the disappointing start, Sedki believes the return of experienced players will strengthen ES Setif in the coming weeks, particularly in attack.

“The return of experienced players in the next stage will help us improve our finishing in front of goal,” he said.

“I am sad, and I apologise to the fans. God willing, we will correct the mistakes during the coming period.”