Kaizer Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika has vowed they are prepared to ‘suffer’ if necessary to secure a vital result against Egyptian giants Zamalek SC in their final CAF Confederation Cup group stage match.
Amakhosi go into the final Group D clash against The White Knight leading the pack with 10 points, two more than their second-placed opponents. Kick off is 18h00.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes encounter in Ismailia, Kwinika reflected on a continental campaign that began with a stumble but has since seen the Soweto giants find their rhythm.
After a loss and a draw in their opening fixtures, Chiefs surged back into contention with three consecutive victories.
“I think the journey has been a bit difficult for us. Obviously, the first game we had to adjust, and then I think the boys grew from there… it shows the progress in the boys in us getting better in the competition. I think we’re getting better by game,” Kwinika said.
KWINIKA: ‘ZAMALEK ARE A VERY DANGEROUS OPPONENT’
Zamalek, despite losing to Zambia’s Zesco last week, remains one of the most decorated clubs on the continent. The experienced centre-back was candid about the quality of the opposition and the hostile environment awaiting them.
“Obviously, it’s a good team, very good team. But obviously, every team at home, they’re very dangerous, so we must be aware of that and understand that at times we will suffer. We need to be strong in those moments, but definitely sure with the quality that we have, I think we’re going to compete,” he added.
Despite a gruelling schedule of back-to-back matches and extensive travel across the continent, Kwinika insisted that fatigue would not be used as an excuse. The defender emphasised that the team is mentally prepared for the physical demands of the do-or-die fixture.
“I think that’s what we signed up for, not getting excuses,” he said regarding the heavy workload. “We knew what was at stake; we knew the schedule. So it’s a matter of going in there. I think we’re doing well; there’s recovery. The coaches are trying to give us as much rest as possible.”
For Chiefs, the objective remains singular. As they head into the final match of the group stages, the focus is entirely on securing the points needed to advance.
“It’s a very important game for us,” Kwinika concluded. “I think we know what’s at stake, and we’re ready for that, and we’re definitely gonna do what’s good for us, which is win.”
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