Gor Mahia’s head coach, Charles Akonnor, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision to host tomorrow’s league match against KCB at Dandora Stadium, citing concerns over the playing conditions.
The match, initially scheduled for the more traditional Nyayo National Stadium, was relocated due to unavailability issues, leaving Akonnor apprehensive about the impact of the venue on both teams’ performances.
In a pre-match briefing, Akonnor remarked, “Of course, it’s not favourable for either team. The pitch is slippery, and the players can’t fully express what they’ve learned in training. It’s not the best environment.” His comments underline the challenges posed by the ground conditions, which can significantly affect the quality of play and the safety of players.
Despite his reservations about the venue, the coach maintains a positive outlook ahead of the match. He has devised a tactical plan tailored to the specific challenges presented by Dandora Stadium.
“We’ll manage it we did so the other day. We won’t try to build from the back; instead, we’ll play more in the opponent’s half and keep them there,” he stated. This strategic shift suggests that Gor Mahia will aim to take control of the game by focusing on aggressive play and minimizing the potential risks associated with the slippery surface.
Akonnor also highlighted the importance of preparation, acknowledging the team’s efforts in studying KCB’s playing style. “We’ve prepared well for the match,” he added, indicating that his squad is ready to adapt and execute their game plan despite the challenges.
As the match day approaches, all eyes will be on Gor Mahia to see if they can overcome the venue-related obstacles and secure a vital victory against KCB.
The outcome could hinge on their ability to adapt to Dandora Stadium’s conditions and execute the tactical strategies laid out by Akonnor.