CAFCC: Stellenbosch FC coach says pressure on Zamalek SC

Photo Credit: Stellenbosch FC

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker says his South African side frustrated holders Zamalek SC in a CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal, first-leg match on Wednesday, April 2 to keep the semifinal dream alive .Barker added that the pressure was now on the Egyptians.

Barker said his game plan was to ensure that Stellenbosch emerged unscathed from DHL Stadium while keeping one eye on the second leg, scheduled to be played in Cairo on April 9. 

“…The main objective was always for us to go to Cairo still having a chance,” Barker told the Stellenbosch FC website. “We didn’t want to go there with the game dead and buried, and I believe that by not conceding an away goal the pressure shifts onto Zamalek.”

The coach has since explained why he thinks his charges have a chance to upset the Egyptians in their backyard despite the odds being stacked against them.

“With good preparation, knowing what we now know, and through analysis and coming up with a good game plan we plan to reach that goal. As it is, even if they score one, we would only need to score once as well [because of the away goals rule],” he added.

“We’re looking forward to it, and relieved that we were able to showcase our ability as a team. Kudos to all of the South African teams [competing in CAF competitions].”

“Over the last two days none of us conceded a goal, so hopefully our brothers in Sundowns and Pirates can set the tone on Tuesday and get into the semi-finals—we wish them luck—and then we can go to Cairo still believing that we have the chance of doing the same.”

The second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal clash between Stellenbosch FC and Zamalek SC will take place in Cairo next Wednesday.