Pyramids FC head coach Rhulani Mokwena expressed pride in his side’s discipline and tactical adaptability after securing a 2-0 victory over Gor Mahia in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary-round tie at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
In his post match presser,the South African coach praised the technical quality of the home side while highlighting his team’s composure under pressure.
“They’re a good side, they’ve got good players, especially in their midfield and defensive organization. We beat a very good side, so I’m very proud of the team and the players.”
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The former Egyptian champions established early control when midfielder Walid El Karti capitalized on a 5th-minute rebound following Mostafa Fathi’s dangerous shot giving the visitors an early lead.
The visitors then doubled their advantage before halftime through Mahmoud Saber capitalizing on a quick transition to punish the Sportpesa League champions on home turf.
Addressing the shifts in momentum during the second half especially after the home side made several changes, Mokwena was of the opinion that elite continental fixtures require real-time adaptation.
“You have to play what the game says. The fans were good, they pushed Gor Mahia here, they don’t give up. So, we had to adapt and we had to do what the game demanded us to do.”
Despite taking a solid two-goal advantage back to North Africa, the former Mamelodi Sundowns tactician remained grounded, refusing to reveal his strategy for the return fixture and insisting that the tie is far from over.
“I don’t want to talk tactics because I’ve got to respect the opposition coach and respect my team also, because we’ve got a second leg to play.”
Following the first-leg win in Nairobi, Pyramids FC now return home as they prepare to host Gor Mahia in Cairo, Egypt.
The 2025 CAF Champions League winners hold a strong advantage heading into the return fixture at the 30 June Stadium on Sunday, September 13, 2026, where Rhulani Mokwena’s men will aim to complete the job on home soil and secure their place in the CAF Champions League preliminary round 2.