K'Ogalo head coach explains reason for first half sub against Pyramids

The decision to take off one of his core players before halftime attracted attention, but the former Ghana national team coach explained that it was purely a tactical move rather than a reflection of the midfielder's performance. 'Yeah, it wasn't because he (Lesley) was doing badly. It was a tactical approach. Alpha [Onyango] was supposed to be behind the striker. And because of his ability, he's always played the eighth position. So, he's always dropping,' Akonnor said. 'And he gave the opponent a chance to score, and we sacrificed him. And then we thought, okay, let's bring in a proper number 10, which is [Ben] Stanley. It didn't work in the early second half, but it got better. And so, it was all good.' Another selection that generated discussion was the decision to start creative midfielder Jackson Dwang on the bench. Against a Pyramids side boasting extensive international experience, the 51-year-old opted to prioritise defensive discipline, physical readiness and the team's shape without possession during the opening stages. Dwang was introduced in the second half, bringing fresh energy to the Green Army as the hosts pushed the Egyptian side back for long stretches.