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From Paul Mundandi in Zvishavane
NORMAN Mapeza, the FC Platinum coach has described the Caf preliminary round, second leg match of the Caf Confederation Cup on Saturday against Sofapaka as a very tough match.

The two teams will clash at Mandava Stadium in Zvishavane with the home team carrying a 2-1 lead.

“I want to assure everyone that we’re ready for the match. I’ve advised my guys to guard against complacency.

“It isn’t over yet. The match is a new chapter for us but we’re ready for Saturday.

“We won 2-1 in Kenya but it’s not going to be easy. Sofapaka are a physical side that doesn’t pass the ball around but like to have two passes and pump the ball forward.

“I know they will be pushing everyone forward because they want a win. I’m looking for a positive result come Saturday. There’s nothing special about Sofapaka,” he said.

Mapeza has both young and experienced players. The young players Wisdom Mutasa, Walter Musona, Nigel Papias, and Tatenda Dzumbunu are gelling well with the senior guys, a development Mapeza is happy with.

“It’s good for them as they’re getting the much needed exposure and experience as they’re the future national team players. They also need to see how difficult it is to play football in Africa,” said the gaffer.

Mapeza was however mum on his ambitions in the tournament as he said he did not want to put himself and his team under pressure.

“As coaches we’ve objectives. We want to push as far as we can go then we will talk after that. It’s good that the game will be played in Zvishavane as it’s a small community which loves football. I hope everyone will come and watch the international game to be played here on Saturday as we count on their support,” said Mapeza.

New signings Brian Muzondiwa and second half substitute Wellington Kamudyariwa played well in the first leg in Kenya.

Muzondiwa opened the scoresheet with Donald Ngoma increasing the tally after Fiston Abdoul had equalised for Sofapaka.

Kamudyariwa was later introduced to stabilise the midfield with workhorse and Zvishavane born Simon Shoko.

Mapeza is, however, spoilt for choice as he has the Zambian international Aaron Katebe, captain Daniel Vheremu and Allen Gahadzikwa, Nelson Maziwisa, Nigel Papias and Obrey Chirwa all available for consideration.

Meanwhile, Sofapaka are expected in Zvishavane tonight after travelling from Bulawayo by road.

The match officials will be from Botswana and are expected in the mining town this afternoon.

Referee Tirelo Mositwane will be in charge and will be assisted by Bakwena Simankale and Madondo Kitso Sibanda while Omphile Phutego will be the fourth official.

Filipe Lucas Johane from Mozambique will be the match commissioner.