Head coach of Libya’s Al Ittihad, Mohamed Kouki has lauded the effort of Royal Leopards FC, following his side’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over the eSwatini club at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday afternoon in a highly entertaining TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup Group B clash.
Kouki’s charges had to dig deep for the victory against an attack-minded and relentless Leopards side, who were looking to register their first win of the group stages against the Libyans in a highly tactical, yet entertaining tie.
Speaking to CAFOnline post his side’s victory, the Tunisian international lauded his side’s resilience in defending their narrow 2-1 lead, while also taking his hat off to Leopards for their impressive showing in the competition.
“They are a very good team with some good players. I have to also give credit to my team because they played very well under pressure when Leopards came at them”
“Physically we were very tired, and they put all their players in attack, but we did well to resist them. The goalkeeper had quite a good match and the important thing for us is the three points which we have taken,” said Kouki.
Asked on his analysis of his opponents, Kouki said the team has the potential but would need to just work on their mentality in such competitions.
“I think they were not ready mentally to win this match. They did however make it difficult for us today, but we were good in defence even though they came at us. They have some really good players and can grow in this competition. I think Leopards is a good team and credit must go to them for a good showing” concluded the coach.
Ittihad now sit top of Group B, just one point ahead of South African giants, Orlando Pirates who face Leopards at home on Sunday.
Ittihad travel to Algeria for what promises to be an exciting clash with JS Saoura.
Source: CAF