Durban City reach Caf Confederation Cup group stage for first time

Durban City have reached the Caf Confederation Cup group stage for the first time after completing a 6-1 aggregate victory over AS Port Louis 2000 of Mauritius.

Eric Tinkler’s side followed up their 3-1 home win in the first leg with a convincing 3-0 victory in Sunday’s return match at the Cote d’Or National Sports Complex.

Gaston Sirino, Haashim Domingo and Ethan Brooks scored the goals as Durban City secured a comfortable win and advanced to the group stage of continental competition for the first time.

Tinkler praised his players for maintaining their concentration despite taking a sizeable advantage into the second leg.

“The players deserve enormous credit. They showed hunger, commitment and togetherness throughout the tie. Playing away from home in continental competition is never easy, but we remained focused on our objectives and delivered when it mattered,” Tinkler told the club media department.

The Durban City coach had warned his team against complacency after their first-leg success and was pleased with the way they responded in Mauritius.

“I’m very pleased with the performance. We came here knowing we had a job to do, despite winning the first leg and the players approached the game with the right mentality,” he said.

“We were disciplined, clinical in front of goal and managed the game well.”

The result gives Durban City a place in the group stage during their first-ever continental campaign. Tinkler said the achievement was significant for everyone involved with the club, while also stressing that the team must continue to improve.

“This is a very important achievement for Durban City. It’s our first-ever continental campaign and reaching the group stages is a proud moment for the club, the players, the technical team and everyone who has supported us.

“We are delighted, but we also know there is more work ahead.”

Durban City will now turn their attention to the Carling Knockout last 16, with Stellenbosch visiting Chatsworth Stadium on Wednesday at 7pm.

Tinkler said the team would celebrate qualifying for the next phase of the Caf Confederation Cup but would remain focused on the challenges ahead.

“We will enjoy this achievement, but we must remain grounded. The group stages will bring a different level of competition and we need to prepare properly, continue improving and make sure we represent Durban City with pride.”