FATIGUE KILLED US - SIHLANGU COACH

MBABANE – Sihlangu Coach Zdravko Logarusic has lamented the impact of fatigue following a 0-3 thrashing by Mozambique at Mbombela Stadium, this past Monday.

With two matches remaining in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, Logarusic’s men are already out of the race to the finals to be staged in Morocco, next year. In the wake of Monday night’s defeat in Nelspruit, Eswatini currently with just one point, not only hoped for Guinea-Bissau to overcome Mali last night, but also required victories against both teams.
“We played under immense pressure. There was a distinct lack of intensity and physicality compared to our previous match. Fatigue killed us. That was our fifth match in 15 days; they played their league fixture on September 3rd, had a friendly on October 2nd, played another league match on October 5, and now we competed on October 11 and 14. I believe five matches in 15 days, coupled with extensive travel, is excessively demanding for our squad.”

He noted that they improved in the second half after making some tactical adjustments. “We conceded a goal, but we also had opportunities that we squandered. To defeat Mozambique, we must all give 100 per cent. They made an effort, but we were lacking in energy. Despite our extra effort, we created chances but failed to capitalise; it was a match from which we can learn.” Logarusic acknowledged the quality of the opposing team, which featured players from Atlético Madrid and Sporting, as well as others from Germany. “We can build on this performance. The players are starting to grasp my approach. Let’s now focus on the CHAN, and we will be calling up new players. I expect to see improvements in technical, tactical, and physical aspects for CHAN.”

He emphasised that the demanding schedule leading up to the CHAN competition is a challenge they must navigate, as players will also be competing in their respective leagues.
Meanwhile, one of the most successful former Sihlangu coaches, Harries ‘Madze’ Bulunga, has defended the current coaching staff. “I appreciate the fans’ support; it indicates I made a positive impact during my tenure. However, let’s extend our respect to the new coach. He has only been with the team for two months, and while results are crucial, he requires time to acclimatise to the local football landscape, select his preferred players after observing enough matches, and instil his philosophy.

It’s a process, not something that can be achieved overnight,” said the first coach to win a Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) Cup bronze medal with Sihlangu. He was reacting to calls from some fans who want him back at Sihlangu. Meanwhile, Eswatini Football Association (EFA) President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane believes the squad is performing satisfactorily. “So far, we are witnessing progress. Let’s remain patient and allow the coach the opportunity to work with the national team; we will ultimately achieve results. We need to support him.”

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: