Join us as our soccer pundit dives deep into the CAF Confederations Cup final second leg, featuring the thrilling clash between SuperSport United and TP Mazembe happening on Saturday, 25 November 2017.
The opening leg saw TP Mazembe secure a hard-fought 2-1 triumph in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo. Now back on home turf, SuperSport United are fully aware that a 1-0 win would see them clinch the title on the away goals rule. Bringing an electric presence, Jeremy Brockie, the tournament’s top goalscorer, travelled tirelessly across seven time zones to join the team after a vital World Cup qualifier against Peru with New Zealand. Here’s the exciting breakdown of what to expect in this definitive showdown…
CAF Confederations Cup | Saturday 25 November | Lucas Moripe Stadium | 20:15
Betting Odds
SuperSport 31/20 | Draw 21/10 | TP Mazembe 39/20
SuperSport United Insight
Matsatsantsa have truly earned the ‘cup specialists’ reputation, with an impressive streak of four cup finals consecutively under their belt – including three local cups and now this continental decider. Trailing 2-1 on aggregate but armed with a precious away goal, they only need a 1-0 home victory to lift the coveted trophy.
Jeremy Brockie, the competition’s top marksman, arrives well-rested despite the intense travels from Peru to DRC, routing through Brazil and South Africa. The Pretoria-based team displayed solid effort in the first leg, though goalkeeper Ronwen Williams had a couple of costly errors – though his overall performance was commendable.
Coach Eric Tinkler is no stranger to continental finals, marking his third appearance after previous challenges in 2013 (as Orlando Pirates assistant) and 2015 (as head coach). Since then, he’s bagged two domestic trophies with Cape Town City and SuperSport United, showcasing his winning edge.
TP Mazembe Preview
The formidable Ravens, reigning champions, head into this away leg buoyed by a 2-1 first-leg advantage. An opening goal here would force SuperSport to net twice for a chance at penalties. Their attacking threats, spearheaded by Malian striker Adama Traore and creative Zambian midfielder Rainford Kalaba, proved potent in the opener.
Known for their intimidating home atmosphere, Mazembe lose that edge away from Lubumbashi. Their last defeat dates back to 7 May, a 1-0 loss to AS Vita Club, and since then they’ve remained unbeaten across 19 fixtures with 15 wins and 4 draws in all competitions.
In this season’s earlier encounters, both teams clashed in the group stages twice – ending in 2-2 in DRC and a goalless draw in South Africa.
Expert Verdict: Draw (21/10)
It’s logical that TP Mazembe will adopt a cautious counter-attacking approach, playing away with the aggregate lead in hand. SuperSport are expected to press hard at home, eager to overturn the deficit. While a home win would be fantastic to see, the smart money is on a draw, meaning TP Mazembe are poised to lift the trophy.
