Kuwait national team coach: Proud of the players' performance; exiting the tournament is a difficult feeling

Jeddah, Sept 26 (KUNA) – Kuwait national football team coach Helio Sousa expressed his pride on Saturday in the level of performance displayed by the “Azraq” (Blue) squad against their Iraqi counterparts, while voicing his regret over the defeat and emphasizing that elimination from the 27th edition of the Gulf Cup of Nations was a difficult experience for the team.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Sousa noted that the team made some changes during the game but preferred not to make too many alterations. He pointed out that Kuwait had several opportunities and needed greater focus at certain moments, as a team cannot attack continuously throughout the match.

He added that the team must work on the small details to reach the level it aspires to, noting that the side failed to achieve the result it sought and must continue working to improve.

Sousa reiterated his pride in the players and their high level of performance during the match, while again expressing regret over the loss. He highlighted that Kuwait had two chances in the first half and created numerous opportunities in the second half.

He clarified that Kuwait had a chance to score a third goal, but Iraq managed to net the goal at the end of the match, prompting Sousa to reiterate his disappointment with the loss, particularly given the quality of play shown by the players. (End) KH N SH / HM F