In the second leg of the CAF Champions League first preliminary round against ASEC Mimosas in Abidjan, Zambian champions Power Dynamos are ready for a tough and demanding environment, according to head coach Oswald Mutapa.
With a slim 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg in Ndola last Saturday, Mutapa’s team will be trying to guarantee their place in the competition’s next round.
Speaking before departure, Mutapa said the team has mentally prepared for all eventualities, including refereeing decisions that may not go in their favor.
“I think if you watched the first leg, a bit of that [bad officiating] was there but I think the team was focused,” Mutapa said when asked about possible bad officiating in Abidjan. “Even now we just need to go and focus on playing. There are certain situations where the [refferee] cant help them. So we just have to concentrate till 90 minutes.”
“We’re one foot into the next round” – Mutapa
The coach emphasized that the tie is far from over despite Power Dynamos holding the advantage.
“We are going into the second half of the contest. We’re leading by a goal to zero, and in football, anything can happen—we can score, and we can defend. We just have to go out there and get a positive result that will take us to the next stage.”
Mutapa noted that Aba Yellow can exploit the Ivorian side, despite their attacking quality.
“It’s a good side going forward, but they’re vulnerable at the back. They are likely to change their approach at home, and we need to capitalize on their weaknesses, especially in the wide areas,” he added.
The Power Dynamos boss expressed confidence in his squad’s mentality and determination.
“Everyone is eager to play and get the result. The character and personality of this team are top-notch. We know we’re almost one foot into the next round, but we must stay focused to finish the job in Abidjan.”
The aggregate winner on Sunday in Abidjan will progress to the next phase of Africa’s premier club competition.
