Downs head back into Africa

2008-05-12 14:47

Johannesburg - To some it seems like a consolation prize but Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns are determined to make the most of their entry into the African Confederations Cup.

Downs will be joined by fellow PSL outfit Platinum Stars in the continent's second major club knockout tournament.

Both Downs and Stars fell out of the African Champions League after the end of the third round played on Sunday.

Both South African sides were edged out by the odd goal. Downs lost 4-3 on aggregate to Sudan's Al Hilal while Stars were beaten 3-2 over the two legs by five time African champions Al Ahly of Egypt.

The draw for the Confederations third round will be made by the Confederations of African Football (Caf) at their Cairo headquarters on Saturday.

Ajax Cape Town blotted their copybook when they fielded a weakened side away to Mount Cameroon on Sunday and lost 6-5 on aggregate after winning 5-1 at home in their Confederations Cup second round tie.

No matter who they face over the two legs Downs are determined to go all the way.

'African cherry'

Said spokesperson Matlhatse Mphalele: "The players and officials are obviously disappointed at not being able to continue in the Champions League. But we are determined to do our best and go all the way in this other tournament (Confederations Cup). It is still a big event and we would love to win it.

We are looking forward to Saturday's draw. This gives us a second bite at the African cherry and we aim to make the most of this second chance."

Both Stars and Downs did South African soccer proud in the Champions League this year and showed they will be feared in the Confederations Cup which is mainly for domestic cup winners and sides that fall out of the Champions League after the third round.

Added Mphalele: "We are happy to continue playing in Africa as it gives the players invaluable experience and ensures we fly the South African flag proudly. We owe to our fans and the country to do our best and try and win the trophy."

Only two South African sides have triumphed in Africa. Orlando Pirates won the big prize when they lifted the African Champions Cup (now the Champions League) in 1995 and six years later Kaizer Chiefs under present coach Muhsin Ertugral, won the African Cup Winners Cup or Mandela Cup which was the forerunner of the Confederations Cup.

- SAPA