By Wendy Mkandawire
Silver Strikers Ladies coach Patricio Kulemeka says his side’s CAF Women’s Champions League COSAFA qualifier dream is still alive, despite a 3-0 hammering by defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies on Sunday at Gaborone United Stadium.
The Malawian champions were outclassed in Group B, but Kulemeka insists the team can bounce back with a victory in their final match.
Kulemeka admitted that Sundowns were superior in every department and said Silver conceded “soft goals” that cost them.
In the post-match interview, Kulemeka stated that despite good preparation, the team suffered a huge defeat, admitting that Sundowns were better in terms of ball possession and controlling the game, hence overpowering them.
He said the team encountered mistakes in central midfield, which Sundowns punished, but they have learned from the defeat and it will help them rectify those mistakes for the next fixture.
With Sundowns already on 6 points, Silver Strikers’ hopes now hinge on their last Group B match against Nsingizini Hotspurs of Eswatini on Tuesday, August 25.
Kulemeka described it as a must-win encounter.
Sundowns Ladies top Group B with 6 points from 2 matches, having scored 11 goals and conceded none.
Silver Strikers will need maximum points against Nsingizini and favorable results elsewhere to progress to the semi-finals of the COSAFA qualifier.
The Bankers are making their second appearance at the regional tournament and are seeking to become the first Malawian team to reach the CAF Women’s Champions League proper.
