CAFCC: We knew Zamalek would become nervous - Stellenbosch coach Barker

Photo Credit - Stellenbosch Football Club.

Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker has explained how he masterminded Zamalek SC’s downfall in the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal, second leg match on Wednesday.

Barker, on his debut with his team in the CAF Confederation Cup, stunned the holders 1-0 at Cairo International Stadium to book a place in the semifinals courtesy of Sihle Nduli’s 79th-minute strike.

Reflecting on the match, the South African said he sent his team to defend and frustrate the hosts then score late in the game.

"It was not an easy match for us. Zamalek had good possession. We just needed to ensure we took the game as long as possible. We knew that the pressure would be on Zamalek SC and that if we scored in the second half later in the game, as we did, it would be difficult for them. Our game plan was to be tight and not concede and we knew they would become nervous,” he explained.

Zamalek SC’s cautious approach also worked to the advantage of the Betway Premiership opponents, according to the coach.

“They changed the game plan instead of three centre backs, they went for four at the back. I was surprised that they went for a back four. They played a lot in front of us and did not get behind us. They controlled the game well in the first 45 minutes, but they didn't create big chances, so we were just comfortable defending,” Barker said.

“It was very important for us not to concede an away goal. Zamalek had a very big chance in the 86th minute, we made a big save and that was the turning point.”

He then disclosed his message to the players ahead of the away game, some sections thought would be a walkover from Zamalek SC.

“My message to the players was: we have to show hunger, we have to show desire and we have to show heart. We knew that we had to sacrifice. You don't come to this place and win without effort. We knew that we had to suffer first. Credit to the players for the effort and sticking to the game plan,” Barker added.

The Western Cape-based side had frustrated Zamalek to a goalless draw in the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinal, a first-leg match played last week in South Africa before stunning the Egyptians on Wednesday in Cairo.

The Betway Premiership side will meet Tanzania’s Simba SC in the semifinals.