For the second time, Debmarine Premiership side African Stars will attempt to reach the group stages of the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) Champions League, when they take on Jwaneng Galaxy.

The first leg of this two-legged encounter is set for Saturday at the Botswana National Stadium, with the match expected to kick off at 15h00. 

This marks the second consecutive year that the Katutura giants have participated in this continental tournament. Last year, their campaign was cut short after a 1-0 loss to Power Dynamos in the second leg. In a recent interview, African Stars’ assistant coach Benni Haoseb expressed confidence in the team’s preparation for Saturday’s match. He emphasised that the coaching staff is working tirelessly to ensure the players are ready.

“Training is going on smoothly, and we’re working towards where the team wants to be. Everyone is available, and I believe the players are determined to get the best result, which is winning the match. I think we’re ready for Jwaneng Galaxy, and we’re looking forward to Saturday,” said Haoseb.

Head coach Ronnie Kanalelo also shared his thoughts earlier this week, noting that the team is focusing on the final touches ahead of the game. “Yesterday, we focused on activation to work on the muscles and get the players’ blood flowing. We also worked on techniques and chance creation. Overall, it’s just those last touches, and I believe the team will be ready by Saturday. We’re on the right track,” he added.

Meanwhile, Jwaneng Galaxy’s Public Relations Officer Tankiso Morake emphasised that they are not underestimating African Stars. He noted the importance of preparation, mentioning that Jwaneng Galaxy has engaged in several pre-season friendly matches to test their readiness.

“We have had a couple of pre-season friendly matches in South Africa, as well as here at home. We have also managed to sign up some new players to beef up our squad in the centre, forward, and defence,” said Morake.

In assessing their opponents, Morake added, “We know of late we’ve played more games in the Champions League than our opponent, where we gained so much experience by playing bigger clubs like Simba from Tanzania, Orlando Pirates, and Wydad Athletic. We know the tournament is played by champions, so you should expect every team to come out guns blazing.”

“But we don’t undermine any team; we know they are a strong team, and that’s why they made it this far. We take this game seriously,” Morake concluded. 

The second leg is scheduled for next Friday in Botswana. 

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na