Ma-Africa FC’s struggles continue after 4–1 defeat to Loyo Stars FC
The Ma-Africa FC coach, Lucky Zuma, said it was their opponent’s early concession of goals that put his team on its back foot, resulting in their loss, despite their attempt at a comeback in the second half.
Ma-Africa FC continues to battle for consistency in the SAFA Johannesburg Hollywoodbets Regional League. The team is struggling to secure maximum points despite flashes of promise.
Their 2–1 victory, on November 9, against Total Football Excellence was expected to lift the Alexandra side after a rough start to the season. However, hopes of momentum were soon dashed when they suffered a 4–1 defeat in a derby match against Loyo Stars FC on Saturday at the Alex Safe Hub.
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Speaking after the match, coach Lucky Zuma admitted his team was not at its best. “My team was not the way it is supposed to be. They were down and everything. I motivated them, I spoke to them, and then at least they tried.”
Zuma pointed to Loyo Stars’ quick succession of three goals in the first half, noting that in the second half, his side showed resilience and secured their first goal.
“In the second half, we played better, because now they ended up adding another defender. So, it clearly shows that we were coming. Unfortunately, they scored early, and it gave them the upper hand.”
Meanwhile, Loyo Stars coach Koketso Rapoo credited their victory to thorough preparation. “We knew how they were going to play. When they came, they changed it a little bit, but we were still able to exploit the spaces that they were creating.”
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Rapoo admitted his side also faced challenges after their early lead. “We relaxed, and that is something that we need to fix as a team.”
Their struggles were compounded by Ma-Africa’s tactical adjustments. “We were not able to score more goals because they changed their tactical play.”
However, he said he was satisfied with their Saturday victory.
“Seeing the boys playing like this and getting a win in our own hood, I think it is something to work and build on.”
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