CAFCC: Why Ibengé ‘couldn’t’ recognize Azam FC

Azam FC coach Florent Ibengé has explained why he could barely recognize his Tanzania Premier Mainland League team during Sunday’s CAF Confederation Cup game against AS Maniema Union in Congo.

The former Al-Hilal manager returned to his home country, hoping for a positive result in the group stage match at a familiar venue of the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa.

However, the former AS Vita boss said his players did not apply themselves fully as instructed, with their play littered by lost ball possession and sloppy defending.

Little wonder, Mputu Kabongo’s 25^th-minute goal handed Maniema Union a first-half lead which Nkama Yves consolidated in the 65th minute to seal the victory.

At some point, the Congolese coach, as quoted by Tanzania’s Daily News, said he was at pains to accept that he was watching a team he had drilled to handle Maniema.

“We weren’t truly ourselves in the first half. We took possession, yet in the opening period we kept losing the ball after just three passes. At times, I struggled to even recognise the team,” Ibengé said.

Why Ibengé remains optimistic of Azam FC

The former Leopards mentor was, nonetheless, encouraged by what he saw after the break following a lengthy pep-talk where he emphasized on keeping shape and possession.

“After the break we spoke briefly, and the message was clear. You saw the difference—we returned with a better mindset and created a handful of chances,” Ibengé added.

Despite the defeat, the Congolese hopes that Azam will bounce back and qualify for the quarterfinals.

Azam’s next assignment in the group is against Wydad AC on Friday at 16:00 (GMT) Azam Complex Stadium.

In the other camp, Maniema Union will face Nairobi United at Nyayo Stadium in the Kenyan capital on Sunday at 13:00 (GMT).

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