KAIZER Chiefs coach Steve Komphela believes mental strength will be key if they are to be successful in the Caf Champions League.
Amakhosi start their Caf mission on Sunday (2pm SA time) against Volcan de Moroni of Comoros in the preliminary round at Stade Said Mohamed Cheikh in Mitsamiouli.
Said Komphela: “We are ready for our Caf campaign, preparations have been made and we are looking forward to these trips. They will be exhausting but they’ll bring a lot of mental strength. I am sure we will bring back something from the trip.”
Komphela is not concerned that playing their return leg on the coast instead of inland could give the island side an advantage. The fixture will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 February.
Chiefs fly out to the Comoros tomorrow and return immediately after the game on Sunday.
“We are aware these guys live on an island. But we’ve got great support in Durban. We asked ourselves what is it that we are looking for? Support, yes, and Durban is a nice place to play. We are playing at home, so whichever way – it’s multitude or altitude.”
Komphela is delighted that they will be travelling to Comoros having narrowed the gap between them and Premiership pacesetters Mamelodi Sundowns following a 1-0 win over Bidvest Wits at Milpark on Tuesday. Amakhosi are a point behind the second placed Students, with 35 points from 19 matches.
Explained Komphela: “It was a big match for both teams. Had they won, it would have meant we are four or five points behind them, which we didn’t want. So we are happy to be where we are.”
However, the former Bafana Bafana captain insisted they are not seeking favours from other clubs as they attempt to retain their title.
“I would love to peek outside, but I would also love to run my race. If you want to suffer a heart attack you must put your hope in somebody else!”
Komphela hailed Reyaad Pieterse, who made a series of incredible saves to deny Wits victory.
“A player must do what is required. We’ve got three goalkeepers, including Itu (Khune) and Brilliant (Khuzwayo), we are happy that they are doing well. But the challenge is to ensure they maintain these performances. I am happy – two great saves. Reyaad assisted us when we needed him most.”
