Gor Mahia FC head coach Leonardo Neiva believes African football giants should bypass the preliminary stages of continental club competitions.
The Brazilian tactician, who is set to make his FKF Premier League debut this weekend, recently saw his team eliminated from the CAF Champions League.
Neiva compared leagues across the continent, pointing out that the Egyptian Premier League is the strongest and noting that few countries can match Al Ahly’s facilities.
“The Egyptian League is the strongest in my opinion, and getting to that level is a process. I hope even in Kenya we are going to grow together. We cannot compare the facilities that Al Ahly have to other countries, which is why they are on a different level.” Neiva told Gor Mahia TV.
He went on to say that major African clubs should not have to compete in the preliminary rounds, adding that Gor Mahia might have advanced further had they faced teams from countries such as Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, or Angola.
“I don’t understand why CAF cannot change the format of the preliminary rounds. Al Ahly, TP Mazembe, and Mamelodi Sundowns should not have to play these early fixtures. I’m confident that if Gor Mahia had drawn teams from Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, or Angola, we would have had a better chance to proceed. But the boys played well.” He added.
Gor Mahia and Kenya Police are now set to begin their FKF Premier League campaigns this weekend. Gor Mahia will host Mathare United in a home fixture at Machakos Stadium, scheduled for Saturday at 4:00 p.m., with the match broadcast live by the official league broadcaster.
The day’s action at Machakos Stadium starts with Sofapaka FC taking on Bandari FC at 1:00 p.m. in the first match of a doubleheader.
Elsewhere, Bidco United will face FC Talanta in another early kick-off at Utalii Grounds, also at 1:00 p.m.
The FKF Premier League will make a grand return to Gusii Stadium, where Shabana FC hosts Posta Rangers at 3:00 p.m. However, this match will be played behind closed doors due to Shabana’s ongoing ban.
On Sunday, Kenya Police will take on Tusker FC at the Police Sacco Stadium, with kick-off set for 4:00 p.m. The match will also be broadcast live.
The earlier match at Police Sacco Stadium will see league leaders KCB FC face Ulinzi Stars at 1:00 p.m.
Three more matches will kick off at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Murang’a Seal will host Mara Sugar at the Sportpesa Arena in Murang’a, Kakamega Homeboyz will face Kariobangi Sharks at Mumias Complex, and AFC Leopards will play Nairobi City Stars at Dandora Stadium.
