Olympique Safi Coach: Confederation Cup Affected Players' Focus Against Raja
Tunisian coach Chokri El Khatoui of Olympique Safi believes his team's participation in the African Confederation Cup played a role in distracting his players, following their two-nil defeat to Raja Club Athletic in matchday 15 of the Professional League.
Speaking to the press after the match, El Khatoui said: "I won't diminish Raja's value; they are a great team, and it's not easy to play against them in such an atmosphere, especially when they are in their best physical condition. But what God willed, happened; this is football, and congratulations to them."
He continued: "We will work on ourselves, and with time and the postponed matches, we will try to return to our rightful place. It's true that our fans are tired of promises, but everyone must stand behind the team."
El Khatoui concluded: "The Confederation Cup contributed to distracting the team's focus, and today I take full responsibility, even though I have only been here for ten days. We apologize to our fans."
