By OkayGoal
Gor Mahia head coach Charles Akonnor believes his side can cause a major upset against Pyramids FC if they combine confidence with discipline in their CAF Champions League showdown.
The Kenyan champions face the Egyptian giants in the first leg of the first preliminary round at Nyayo Stadium on September 6 before travelling to Cairo for the decisive return fixture on September 13.
Pyramids growing reputation on the continent makes them strong favourites, but Akonnor insists Gor Mahia should not be intimidated by their pedigree.
It is like David and Goliath, but in football everything is possible, the Ghanaian coach said.
The Ghanaian coach believes Gor Mahias strongest opportunity lies in securing a positive result at home before facing Pyramids in Egypt.
We have to believe in ourselves and do the right things because if we do, we can get a good result, he said.
The coach is demanding defensive discipline following Gor Mahias 3-1 loss to Tusker in the FKF Super Cup, while injuries have further complicated his preparations.
Despite those setbacks, Akonnor remains convinced his players can compete if they execute their game plan effectively.
If we can stay focused, defend well and take our chances, then we can surprise them, he said.
Gor Mahia have also reinforced their squad ahead of their continental campaign, bringing in several players to provide cover amid the injury problems.
The Nairobi encounter could therefore prove crucial, with Akonnor targeting a home victory that would give his team a realistic chance of progressing before the return leg in Cairo.