Santos confident of going through

BOITUMELO KHUTSAFALO
Staff Writer | Friday February 26, 2010 00:00

 

Hunda is confident that they will convincingly overcome their opponents and qualify for the next round. 'I do not see any reason why I cannot confidently say we will proceed to the next round. We will hammer them,' he said.

He said there is no doubt about Costa Del Sol's strength as they have at least seven national team players. He added that in terms of experience, the Mozambican side beats Santos hands down. But he explained that his youngsters do not fear anyone and are ready to send their opponents packing.

He stated that many supporters and some football officials in Mozambique were surprised by the youngsters' brave performance against seasoned opponents away from home despite losing 2-0. He said they hope to get an early goal to put pressure on the visitors. He said that he cannot bank on the hot weather as an advantage as most of Costa Del Sol's players are in the national team and therefore play in different conditions.

Santos go in to the game with a fully charged squad. Other than playing at the national level with the Under-20, tomorrow's game affords Mogakolodi Ngele an opportunity to prove to the senior national team selectors that he is ready for the big stage. The youngster has been one of the youthful players that Zebras' coach, Stanley Tshosane has been calling for camps. There is no doubt about his killer instinct inside the box. He could prove a handful for Costa Del Sol's defence if they take him lightly. Together with his brother, Godfrey and Farasai Nyamunamwendo, they can cause damage to any defence.

Meanwhile, Costa Del Sol also seem confident ahead of the match. Coach, Joao Chissano said there have not had any special preparations for the game. 'We prepared just like any other game we play in our league,' he said.

Costa Del Sol vice president, Issufo Mogne has revealed that they have had their share of what could possibly be intimidation usually shown to teams in Africa when they play away. 'I am glad that Santos' coach talked about the splendid hospitality shown to them in Mozambique but unfortunately we cannot say the same,' he said. He said that one of their players has had to stay at the border for hours before he could join the rest of the team in Gaborone although he had all the necessary documents. He said that when they came to Botswana, they were informed that they were going to stay at a hotel. However, they were surprised when they were taken to some place in Mogoditshane. He said they were told the rooms at the hotel they were supposed to occupy had been booked. The tickets for the game started selling yesterday. Those who wish to sit in the Grand Stands pay 100. The rest of the stands cost P35.