Muyoti on what cost City Stars in defeat to AFC Leopards

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FKFPL Muyoti on what cost City Stars in defeat to AFC Leopards

Festus Chuma 18:34 - 22.01.2024

Nairobi City Stars coach Nicholas Muyoti expresses disappointment after a 2-0 loss to AFC Leopards.

Nairobi City Stars head coach Nicholas Muyoti expressed deep disappointment following his team's unexpected 2-0 defeat to AFC Leopards, a result that halted their pursuit of league leaders Gor Mahia.

In what was anticipated to be a match showcasing City Stars' strength and tactical prowess, Simba wa Nairobi instead faced a reality check, missing a crucial opportunity to close the gap in the league standings.

The encounter at Bukhungu Stadium was a significant one for City Stars, who were riding high on a seven-game winning streak.

The team, known for its resilience and tactical astuteness, was expected to give a tough time to AFC Leopards.

However, the match unfolded differently, with AFC Leopards taking control and eventually sealing the win with goals from Maxwell Otieno and Kevin Kimani.

The outcome not only derailed City Stars' momentum but also exposed vulnerabilities that Muyoti acknowledged need urgent addressing.

"Our game plan didn't work as expected," Muyoti admitted in the post-match press conference.

"AFC Leopards showed greater domination and, frankly, they deserved the win. We struggled defensively and made mistakes that cost us dearly. It's a wake-up call for us, and we're determined to rectify these issues before our next match."

City Stars, who at one point held the majority of possession and managed several promising shots on goal, failed to convert these opportunities into scores.

Compounding their woes, City Stars finished the match with ten men after captain and left-back Calvins Masawa was sent off during stoppage time.

This disciplinary setback adds another layer of complexity to Muyoti's challenges as he prepares the team for their next fixture against Shabana.

A defeat in this upcoming match could potentially see City Stars slipping further down the league table, a scenario Muyoti is keen to avoid.

Despite the setback, Muyoti remains optimistic about his team's chances in the ongoing season.

"Football is unpredictable, and every defeat teaches us something new. Our focus now is on our next match, ensuring we come back stronger and more prepared," he said, projecting a sense of resilience and determination.

The loss to AFC Leopards not only halted City Stars' impressive winning streak but also kept them 10 points behind league leaders Gor Mahia, who continue their undefeated run this season. 

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