KAIZER Chiefs are expected to leave the country today on a mission to conquer the continent.
Amakhosi start their Caf Champions League campaign with a date with Comoros island side Volcan de Moroni at Stade Said Mohamed Chesikh in Mitsamiouli on Sunday (2pm SA time). The return leg will take place at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on 27 February.
Chiefs, who had taken the Caf competitions for granted in the past, seems to have been inspired by fellow Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates, who made Mzansi proud recently by reaching the 2015 Confederations Cup final.
They raised the South African flag on the continent but lost 2-1 on aggregate to Tunisian giants Etoile du Sahel in the final.
Although Pirates failed to qualify for Caf competitions this time, they inspired other Mzansi teams to aim high, having also reached the Champions League final in 2013.
Chiefs’ apparent disdain for the Caf competitions saw them send fringe players to compete in the past. But that notion seems to have changed since Pirates paved the way on the continent.
Komphela has learnt from Bucs’ experience that competing on the continent is not a bed of roses.
He stressed the importance of mental strength to overcome fatigue that will inevitably result from the long trips they will have to take.
It seems the outspoken mentor has already devised a plan to ensure his side has enough depth to compete domestically and in the Champions League without exhausting all his players. Having reserved space for four extra players if the team reaches the group stages is a wise move for Komphela, who has registered 26 players for the competition.
This game will be a real test of character for Chiefs players, to gauge if they are ready for the tough challenge ahead.
