CAFCC: Juan Garrido explains USM Alger defeat at Rivers United

By Wale Mustapha

Head Coach of USM Alger, Juan Carlos Garrido had revealed reasons for his side’s defeat to Rivers United in the first leg quarterfinal of CAF Confederation Cup on Sunday.

The defending champions fell to 1-0 defeat in the match played on Sunday in Uyo.

Speaking to sports writers after the match, Garrido attributed Ramadan fast to his team’s below par performance which resulted to the defeat, stressing that the 2pm kickoff time affected his team’s performance.

“As we expected, it was a very difficult match because of the quality of our opponent (Rivers United), who we respect a lot,” he began.

“We also played this game in Ramadan without eating or drinking, which wasn’t a good condition for my team.

“To play at 2pm in this weather condition is not ideal. I know the home team has the right to choose when to play, but in my opinion, in this situation, the organizers (CAF) have to respect our position.

I’ve to congratulate my players for playing in such a condition.”

Garrido expressed confidence in his team to overturn the result in the second leg which will be at a much better condition.

“Rivers United was better than us. But anyway, no excuses, congratulations to them for winning,” he continued.

“I believe we’ll be in a much better condition when we play the return leg in Algeria. At our stadium, we’re going to play to win.”

The return leg is slated for the Stade du Juliet in Algiers next week Sunday.