Sudan Sudanese head coach, Ismail Balanga Bandua has showered endless praises to his team players over the spirited display in their 1 -3 loss against the hosts, Kenya during the CECAFA group A game played at Nyayo national stadium in Nairobi on Saturday.
“We have continued to improve tremendously. Last year we scored only one goal and this year, we have got 2 goals yet we have one last game against Ethiopia”, Balanga, a national of Democratic of Congo said at the post match press conference.
Balanga shocked the packed press conference held at Nyayo Stadium media center when he disclosed that he has been with the team for only 13 days.
“We have trainned together for close to 2 weeks but our game has been free flowing”, he said. When Kawowo Sports’ journalist questioned him of the bitter reaction from team’s lead striker, James Joseph upon being replaced by Achiul Akol, Balanga said the decision was ‘a forced one’ from some of the members on the technical bench.
“Even me i was suprised by the change, somebody called for that change. It is even noticed, when James came off, we conceded a goal”, he bemoaned.
Jockins Atudo’s penalty after just 16 minutes and Jacob Keli’s headed effort are the goals that put the Harambe Stars in the lead. South Sudan’s captain, Richard Jistin had scored a beautiful freekick on the 27th minute mark to equalise the game before Kenya taking the lead once again on a day where Allan Wanga would have extended his efforts had he not being wastful infront of Juma Jinaro’s goal posts.
David Owino scored for Kenya’s last goal with a 78th minute solo effort. The result means that South Sudan will be playing for pride in their last game against Ethiopia next week.
Balanga has a vast coaching profile as he has coached in DRC, Rwanda (Mwanga F.C), Kenya (with Sofapaka), Bostwana (Black Pelleli F.C) and now in South Sudan national team.
South Sudan will play
