Sekhukhune’s Confed Cup second-round breakthrough confirmed

CAF has confirmed Sekhukhune United’s breakthrough to the second preliminary round of the Confederations Cup.

As reported by FARPost last week, Sekhukhune United has been given a smooth passage ahead of their maiden in continental club competitions.

This is undoubtedly some good reason to smile and forget their recent 5-0 humiliation at the hands of Orlando Pirates.

Sekhukhune United had been drawn against Eswatini side Young Buffaloes in the first preliminary round.

However, Young Buffaloes withdrew from the competition, with financial challenges as their reason for pulling out.

Interestingly, Young Buffaloes have previously made several appearances in both continental club championships but with little impact.

CAF’s communicates with Sekhukhune United

CAF confirmed the development to SAFA on Monday, 14 August 2023. The African football governing body’s Competitions manager Emad Shenouda wrote to SAFA CEO Mzwandile Maforvane, revealing Sekhukhune United’s good news.

“Dear Madams and Dear Sirs, reference the above-mentioned subject, we would like to inform you that the club Young Buffaloes has withdrawn from the competition,” read the email.

“There, we hereby inform you that the club Sekhukhune United automatically qualified to the 2nd preliminary round of the competition.”

They were earmarked to host Young Buffaloes between 18-20 August before travelling to Eswatini for the reverse fixture between 25-27 August.

They now wait for the second preliminary round, where they will face FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This is the first time Sekhukhune United play on the African Safari after an inspiring 2022/23 campaign.

Babina Noko qualified for the second-tier tourney of African club football after reaching the final of the Nedback Cup.

Winners, Orlando Pirates had already qualified for the CAF Champions League after finishing in second position in the DStv Premiership

Another DStv Premiership side, SuperSport United, will also be competing in the Confederation Cup. They face the winner of the first preliminary tie between Gaborone United and Elgeco Plus.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns and Pirates will take part in the Caf Champions League.

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