Maduka targets CAF competitions
South Africa-based Flames legend John Maduka says his target is to lead Royal AM to Confederation of African Football (CAF) club competitions qualification.
Maduka’s Kwazulu Natal-based side is having a good season and is on course to finish in second position with 43 points from 24 matches, 11 below leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and five adrift of third-placed Kaizer Chiefs
Royal AM came from two goals down to beat University of Pretoria 3-2 in Sunday’s Nedbank Cup quarter-final at Chatsworth Stadium to set up a tasty semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The other semi-final will be a Limpopo derby between Tshakuma FC and holders Marumo Gallants. The draw was conducted directly after the last quarterfinal at Chatsworth Stadium.
Maduka yesterday said they need to utilise their two chances of playing in CAF club competitions.
He said: “If situations are like that, it is more to our advantage, because we have two chances to qualify for CAF competitions, I think it is an opportunity to go either through to the Nedbank or to position number two. All we need is to focus. It is very important for us to go all the way in the Nedbank Cup and do well in the league.
“We want to go all out as the club even though we will respect the opponents. It is very important for us to do well win this cup for KwaZulu-Natal, we are only two left and I believe this beautiful province deserves something in football.”
To play in CAF Confederations Cup, Maduka has to guide his club to a domestic cup win or finish third PSL DStv Championship.
To qualify for the CAF Champions League, Maduka has to ensure AM Royal wins the South Africa’s Premier (PSL)Soccer League DStv Championship or finish as runners-up.
