Akonnor praises Mokwena’s Pyramids as Gor Mahia chase Champions League comeback

Gor Mahia coach Charles Akonnor has hailed Rulani Mokwena’s Pyramids FC as “a good side” as the Kenyan champions attempt to overturn a two-goal deficit in the CAF Champions League on Sunday.

The Egyptian side claimed a 2-0 first-leg victory in Kenya last weekend, leaving Gor Mahia with a daunting task in the return leg.

Pyramids have made an impressive start under South African coach Mokwena, winning their opening four league matches, and Akonnor acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing his team.

“It doesn’t look good that we will go and win, but you never know,” the former Ghana coach told Pan Africa Football.

“It is all about the determination of the players, their mindset and how ready they are.”

Akonnor singled out Pyramids’ movement and attacking intelligence as qualities his players must be wary of.

“They are a team that, if you allow them to play, they are very smart,” he said.

“They can outsmart you in a lot of areas – the movement off the attacking lines, faking one side and going. It is also about our intelligence and how ready we are, but they are a good side.”

Despite trailing by two goals, Akonnor believes Gor Mahia can take encouragement from their second-half display in the first leg.

He said his side had learned the importance of avoiding costly errors against opponents capable of punishing the smallest mistakes.

“We have told them that the least mistake that you make, you can be punished, but we are very encouraged, especially with what we did in the second half,” he said.

The 50-year-old added that improving their control in midfield, pressing and counter-pressing could give Gor Mahia a route back into the tie.

“Hopefully, this time around there will be fewer mistakes, and we will do well in terms of how we control the midfield, in terms of pressing and counter-pressing.

“If we do those things, there is always a chance for us.”

The second leg kicks off on Sunday at 15:00 GMT.