Al Merrikh head coach Darko Nović expressed frustration following his team’s latest setback in the Rwanda Premier League, attributing the string of poor results to the absence of crucial players currently representing Sudan at the FIFA Arab Cup. On Sunday night, November 30, 2025, Al Merrikh suffered a 1–0 defeat to Gorilla FC in Kigali, marking their second consecutive loss in Rwanda within just one week.
Earlier in the week, the club was beaten by Bugesera FC in a fixture held in Bugesera District, intensifying early-season difficulties. With only three points from their first three matches, Al Merrikh finds itself near the bottom of the league standings in 17th place, adding pressure on the coaching staff and players alike.
Speaking to reporters after the Gorilla FC match, Nović emphasized that while his squad possesses quality, the current shortage of available players has significantly hampered performance. Several key team members were called up for Sudan’s national team duties, forcing the coach to rely on a smaller roster for high-stakes league matches.
“What happened to us in the previous match has happened again,” Nović said. “We play good football, but we fail to convert our chances. Meanwhile, our opponents get one clear opportunity and make it count. That is what is costing us points.”
Nović highlighted that the lack of squad depth represents Al Merrikh’s biggest immediate challenge. The absence of star players on international duty has limited tactical options and made it difficult to compete effectively against well-prepared opponents. Despite the hurdles, the coach remained hopeful about the situation improving in the near future.
“I think this situation will be resolved soon,” he added. “Right now, I simply do not have enough players available because many have traveled. But by January 2026, it will almost feel like we are a completely new team again.”
Although results have been disappointing, Nović insisted that he is not discouraged. He praised the resilience and tactical discipline of the remaining squad, emphasizing that the team continues to execute plans effectively even if outcomes have not reflected their efforts. He also expressed confidence that once the full roster returns, Al Merrikh will regain stability, enhance goal-scoring efficiency, and challenge more consistently in the league.
The club now turns its attention to its next fixture against Rutsiro FC, set for Wednesday, March 3, 2025, at Umuganda Stadium. The match will serve as a critical opportunity to halt the losing streak and begin climbing the league table, as pressure mounts from fans and stakeholders eager for improved performances.
Supporters and analysts alike are watching to see how Nović adapts tactically in the absence of international players. His optimism that the squad will return stronger in January 2026 may prove pivotal for the remainder of the season. The coach’s approach to integrating available players while maintaining competitiveness will be under scrutiny as Al Merrikh seeks to reverse its fortunes.
The current circumstances underscore the challenges mid-season squad shortages can create in competitive leagues. While injuries, suspensions, or national team call-ups are common across football, Al Merrikh’s early struggles highlight the critical need for squad depth and contingency planning.
For now, the task is clear: Al Merrikh must navigate its temporary personnel gaps, find alternative attacking strategies, and maintain morale to prevent early-season setbacks from derailing overall league ambitions. With the return of Sudan international players expected in January, the club is poised to regain balance, but immediate matches will test the depth and adaptability of the current roster.
As the Rwanda Premier League season progresses, Al Merrikh’s ability to recover from these challenges will determine whether the club can reestablish itself as a competitive force. Tactical adjustments, effective rotation, and strategic planning during the absence of star players remain key components for salvaging the season. Your are allowed to comment on
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