Gamondi expects tough CAF clash

YOUNG Africans Head Coach Miguel Gamondi expressed concern over his team’s limited preparation spell but is confident they will overcome CBE SA and advance to the CAF Champions’ League group stage.

The match is scheduled to take place tomorrow at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The aggregate winner will determine which side advances to the group stage of the CAF Champions League.

Gamondi’s remarks following departure to Addis Ababa underscored concerns over the readiness of his players, many of whom have recently returned from their national AFCON qualifiers.

The situation has left the squad with limited time to train together, raising concerns about their cohesion and match fitness.

“Of course, we have not fully prepared for this game because 14 players are missing.

As such we are going to conduct a full squad training tomorrow (today) before facing our opponents.

Coach Gamondi’s comments highlight the intense pressure and preparation involved in the pivotal match.

“It is going to be a tough game, bearing in mind the fact that our opponents are champions in Ethiopia.

As such, we need to respect them,” Gamondi said.

Despite the said challenges, Gamondi remains resolute, emphasising that the team has meticulously studied CBE SA’s playing style through video analysis.

The preparation aims to counteract the lack of firsthand experience against the Ethiopian side.

Gamondi’s detailed research and strategic planning reflect his commitment to overcoming the obstacles and maximising the team’s chances in what promises to be a highly competitive match.

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“We have some of their videos but frankly, we do not know them much and this is what will make the game very tough…we are still hopeful to get positive result,” Gamondi said.

Also, Gamondi notified the Press that full-back Nickson Kibabage and Farid Mussa will not be available for the encounter.

He noted that Kibabage mourns the loss of his father, while Mussa is recovering from a recent surgery.

On a positive note, Gamondi said that Kouassi Yao has returned to training following his injury, though he has yet to reach peak form.