Marumo Gallants began their maiden CAF Confederation Cup group stage campaign with a 4-1 win over Al-Akhdar on Sunday afternoon.
CAF Confederation Cup
Teams: Marumo Gallants 4-1 Al-Akhdar
Date: 12 February 2023
Venue: Dobsonville Stadium
Gallants recalled the likes of Washington Arubi, Ranga Chivaviro, Ismael Olivier Toure and Mpho Mvalesa following the Nedbank Cup triumph over Magesi FC earlier this week.
The hosts got off to the perfect start as Lesiba Nku got his first goal of the group stages and second int he competiton overall by finding the back of the net on four minutes.
The Limpopo side added to their advantage in the 21st minute, as Katlego Oltadisa turned provider to pick out Chivaviro, who made no mistake from close range.
Raymond Mdaka's charges were well drilled in defence on the day and did well to deny the visitors a clear sight at Arubi's goal in the first half.
Gallants carried that momentum into the second half and managed to bag a third goal ten minute in, with Chivaviro completing his brace with an impressive finsih.
With the home side comfortably leading, Mdaka opted for a triple change as Chivaviro, Otladisa and Ngema made way for Judas Moseamedi, Joseph Molangoane and Monde Mphambaniso for the final 25 minutes.
The visitors did manage to pull a goal back with ten minutes on the clock, with Akram Alzawi firing past Arubi to set up a nervy finish.
However, Malongoane wrapped up the win in the 85th minute with his first goal of the competition as Gallants start the group phase with a win.
Here's how they line up:
Marumo Gallants: Arubi, Mvelase, Mabotja, Toure, Nonyane, Mohomi, Ngema, Otladisa, Nku, Letsie, Chivaviro
Subs: Watenga, Manaka, Molangoane, Makudubela, Gumede, Pheko, Mphambaniso, Sibeko, Moseamedi
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
