Truter and Vilakazi on how they will deal with hostility in Kinshasa
Sekhukhune United coach Brandon Truter and attacking midfielder Sibusiso Vilakazi have shared how they plan to deal with hostility in Kinshasa. Sekhukhune jetted off to DR Congo on Friday ahead of the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round match on Sunday.
The DStv Premiership side carry a 3-1 lead against Saint Eloi Lupopo from the first leg, which took place at Peter Mokaba Stadium a fortnight ago.
The DR Congo fans and clubs are known for their hostility when they host clubs from other countries if the experiences of South African teams are anything to go by.
The last South African club to visit the DR Congo was Royal AM in November last year, and were left fuming over what they say was ill-treatment.
SIBUSISO VILAKAZI’S ADVICE TO THE SEKHUKHUNE UNITED YOUNGSTERS
Vilakazi, who was part of the Mamelodi Sundowns’ side that played AS Vita Club in 2016 and 2017, has shared his experience of playing in Kinshasa.
“The experience of that place on its own being hostile, for me more than anything is just to go there and enjoy ourselves,” he said.
“We have two goals in the bag so, protect that, more than anything try to make that crowd be on your side.
“It’s hostile but it’s nice, trust me it is very nice. I have been there a couple of times, it’s very nice,” added Vilakazi who also scored during Sundowns’ 3-1 win over Vita in 2017.
“So just go there and enjoy the game more than anything. If you score one or two goals, that crowd will decide to be on your side. So, it’s going to be nice.”
BRANDON TRUTER NOT INTIMIDATED BY KINSHASA HOSTILITY
Coach Brandon Truter believes the club has more than enough experience to deal with any situation.
“The hostility in Kinshasa everybody knows about it. But if you look at the team, we have a lot of experienced players in terms of internationals,” he said.
“I can mention Badra [Sangare], Edwin Gymah, [Daniel] Cardoso, Villa [Sibusiso Vilakazi], Rally Bwalya, Kamohelo Mokotjo, [Chibuike] Ohizu. So, there is a lot of experience and maturity.
“We have players who have played at this level and faced up to some hostility. So it’s nothing to worry about, but from the squad perspective and playing personnel, they will surely advise the younger players and other players who have not been there how to deal with the situation,” added Truter.
The match on Sunday will kick-off at 16:30 South African time.
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