Al Hilal head coach Josef Zinnbauer has urged his players to maintain their winning momentum and consistency as the Sudanese giants seek to strengthen their title challenge in the BK Pro League.
Al Hilal secured a hard-fought 1-0 away victory over Bugesera FC at Bugesera Stadium on Saturday, courtesy of a second-half strike from Cameroonian youngster Ivan Jordan Nana.
The victory came as a timely response from the Sudanese side, who had endured a difficult spell that included a 1-1 draw against Rayon Sports and a 3-0 defeat to Marine FC in Rubavu.
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Having collected four points from their last three matches, Zinnbauer insists his players must remain focused and build on the victory as the league campaign gathers momentum.
"We still have matches in hand and we must win them if we want to move to the top of the table," the German tactician said in a post-match interview.
"Yes, we won the game, but we have to keep this winning run going for the rest of the season. Consistency is very important if we want to achieve our objectives."
Zinnbauer, who previously coached South African giants Orlando Pirates, believes his youthful squad has the quality and ambition to challenge for the championship but stressed that maintaining high standards will be crucial to their success.
"It is still early in the season and there are many things we need to improve," he said.
"We will continue to work hard because at this club we are expected to play good football and win matches. Overall, I am pleased with the attitude and performances of the players, but we must remain consistent throughout the league campaign."
Al Hilal have climbed to fifth place in the provisional standings with 10 points from five matches, four points behind leaders Marine FC, who have played three games more.
Bugesera FC, meanwhile, dropped to seventh place with nine points.
Al Hilal, like other BK Pro League clubs, will return to action after the international break, with several players expected to join their respective national teams for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.