Eric Tinkler has identified qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage as a central goal for Durban City FC. The new head coach made the continental competition a key reason for joining the Nedbank Cup champions, who are now two matches from that target after a 3-1 aggregate win over Rukinzo FC.
Tinkler’s first official match ended in a 2-1 home defeat to AmaZulu on Tuesday night, a result that leaves the Citizens 11th in the Betway Premiership with seven points from eight games. He said the loss provided clear diagnostic data. "I think obviously first off we got punished on two counter-attacks," Tinkler told reporters. "They're a very, very dangerous team on the counter."
He made changes at half-time and was encouraged by the response, which included a 72nd-minute goal from Domingo that brought the team back into contention. Tinkler, who had been at the club for just over 10 days before the match, had used a handful of friendlies to assess his squad. "I haven't been here too long, just over 10 days now," he said. "A couple of friendlies that we played to get to know the players a little bit."
Focus on Port-Louis
The immediate focus shifts to Sunday’s key home leg against AS Port-Louis 2000 in the second preliminary round. Kickoff is at 3pm at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Success over the two-legged tie would secure a historic group-stage berth for the club.
"The weekend match is very important and crucial," Tinkler stated. He emphasised that the team must work extremely hard to achieve a goal that every club and coach desires. The opportunity represents a significant step for Durban City, who are also preparing for a tough domestic fixtures schedule that includes a trip to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns on 1 November. The club’s current standings position adds urgency to their continental ambitions as they seek to build momentum. The full squad will be tested across both competitions in the coming weeks.
Background and full detail: iol.co.za
