Durban City see off Rukinzo to reach CAF Confederation Cup second round

Durban City progressed to the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup with a 3-1 aggregate victory over Rukinzo.

The Nedbank Cup champions secured their place in the next stage despite a late setback in the return leg, winning 2-1 in the away fixture in Burundi. They had taken a 1-0 lead from the first match at Moses Mabhida Stadium seven days earlier.

Kyle Jurgens gave Durban City the ideal start by heading in a cross from John Mokone inside the opening minute. The early goal settled any nerves for Khalil Ben Youssef’s side and extended their advantage in the tie.

Rukinzo responded by applying pressure for much of the first half, attempting to reduce the deficit, but City remained composed. Their task became more straightforward in the 35th minute when Samkelo Maseko scored his first goal in the competition to make it 2-0 on the night and 3-0 on aggregate.

Jean Lwamba again led the attack as a lone striker, with Tashreeq Morris named among the substitutes. Durban City were also able to rely on the continental experience of Gatson Sirino and Bandile Shandu.

With his side holding a commanding aggregate lead, Ben Youssef made three changes on the hour mark. Ethan Brooks, Makua and Mthembu came on for Tyler Sanger, Jurgens and Shanu, with the replacements tasked with seeing out the final 30 minutes.

Rukinzo pulled a goal back with seven minutes remaining, but the late response did not alter the outcome. Durban City held on for the 2-1 win and joined Kaizer Chiefs in the second preliminary round.

City will next face AS Port-Louis 2000 of Mauritius. The Mauritian side advanced after defeating Jwaneng Galaxy.

Durban City’s next five fixtures

Durban City’s next five matches are against Orlando Pirates away, Milford away, AmaZulu at home, Mamelodi Sundowns away and TS Galaxy away.