CAFCC: Eguma Attributes Draw On Players Inexperience, Wastefulness

Enyimba coach Stanley Eguma has blamed his players’ lack of experience and wastefulness for their 1-1 draw against Egyptian side Al Masry in the penultimate game of the CAF Confederation Cup which ultimately narrowed their chance of progressing into the next round of the competition, The Tidesports reports.
The People’s Elephants needed a win in the game to brighten their chances of qualifying for the next round, but they started on the back foot as the visiting team opened the scoring as early as the 8th minute courtesy of a fine strike by Mohamed Hashem.
Eguma’s side levelled matters immediately after the restart courtesy of Ifeanyi Ihemekwele but they couldn’t break their visitors again, and instead almost conceded another goal from the spot but thanks to goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena who denied Al Masry from the spot.
The result leaves the two-time CAF Champions League winners on five points after five games, one point behind Al Masry and now have a mountain to climb in their last group game to stand any miraculous chance of advancing.
“We were lethargic in our approach and that early goal we conceded demoralised us so much. Most of these players have not played at this level before; they are playing for the first time.
“In the second half, we had a series of chances to win the game but we faltered. That was our undoing.”
To advance, they need a win against leaders Zamalek, who have nothing to play for in their last game in Egypt next Sunday, just as Black Bulls must beat Al Masry at home in Egypt.
With their seemingly impossible task, Eguma remains optimistic that they can progress.
“For me, I think it is not the end of the game, it’s football. If Al Mary can play the game of their life here, we can also go to Egypt and get something better. We are still optimistic, it is not over until it’s over.”