10 days have passed since the painful elimination of TP Mazembe in the semi-final of the Champions League, against Al Ahly. This 3-0 defeat in Cairo had a significant impact on the Ravens team. The team seems to have lost its momentum and gone two games without a win since this defining event of the season. This series of poor results raises questions about the team’s ability to recover from this shock and continue with determination their quest for the Linafoot title, a competition in which they were considered heavy favourites.
The pill was particularly bitter for coach Lamine N’diaye, who expressed his frustration over a controversial refereeing decision in the match against Al Ahly. His dismaying comment after the match, where he pointed out the lack of seriousness of referees in Africa, reflected the bitterness felt by the entire team. The situation was exacerbated by the cancellation of a crucial goal which profoundly affected the progress of the match. Lamine N’diaye highlighted the negative impact of the referee on the game and clearly denounced these unfavorable circumstances.
The shattered African hope has left scars within the team, which seems to have lost its usual confidence and determination. The lackluster performances in the national championship testified to this decline, with two draws in three days, one of which was against a team that TP Mazembe had previously largely beaten. The question of whether these poor performances are due to the disappointment of elimination in the Champions League remains unanswered.
TP Mazembe now finds itself under pressure in the championship, with a reduced lead over its direct competitors. While the title race seemed well underway a short time ago, recent results have sowed doubt in people’s minds. Lamine N’diaye insists on the need for his players to regain serenity and confidence to approach the rest of the season in a more positive manner. Without this, the next matches may be very difficult to manage.
In conclusion, the elimination in the Champions League undeniably had an impact on TP Mazembe. The team must overcome this difficult period, find its inner strength and its will to win to maintain its chances of winning the Linafoot title. The next few weeks will be crucial to see how the Ravens will react to this adversity and if they will be able to meet the challenge that presents them.