SA’s Chiefs edged the Zambian side 1–0 at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium last weekend, and completing the double at home would significantly strengthen their chances of progressing from the group. Victory would move Amakhosi to seven points, keeping them firmly in contention for a top‑two finish.

Maboe says Chiefs have a clear plan to manage Zesco’s strengths and dictate the tempo of the match. “They are very awkward to play against because they’re a team that plays a lot of long balls. They want to play off second balls, they want to fight,” Maboe explained.

“For us, we’re going to be playing on a much better pitch, so it’s about frustrating them by keeping possession and finding our pocket players. They seem to open up later in the game when they’re chasing. So, if we get an early goal, it’s going to be a different game from the first leg because they’ll eventually have to come out. The first goal will be very important.”

Chiefs still have two tough fixtures against Egyptian giants Al Masry (home) and Zamalek (away) after this weekend’s match, making Sunday’s clash all the more significant.

Zesco, meanwhile, have struggled badly in the group, losing all three of their fixtures so far. However, Maboe insists the Zambian side will be equally desperate for points.

“It’s going to be a very important game for us this weekend because we also need the points to get out of the group stages,” he said.

“It won’t be an easy game; they are very awkward to play against. But I believe in the depth we have in the squad, and we’re more than capable of collecting all three points at home.”

–SABC/ChannelAfrica–