Kaitano Tembo ready for rescuing SuperSport United in Confed Cup

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Friday Mar 16, 2018. 13:00

SuperSport United interim coach Kaitano Tembo says it feels good to return to continental competitions as he will guide the South African side on Friday night.

The Zimbabwean manager was handed the reins after Eric Tinkler resigned from the coaching job.

Supersport will host Angola’s Atletico Petroleos in the CAF Confederation Cup first round, second leg qualifying match.

On taking over from Tinkler, Tembo said the players have responded well to him and he is ready to tackle the role head on.

"The feeling is always good playing in Africa because it helps the team to grow and the players to grow as individuals to come across different cultures during travels. It builds character in the players," Tembo said to the Sowetan.

"They (Petroleos) are quite a good team. They are second on the log and have not lost a home in the last 27 games, so they are quite a formidable side.

"It's an environment I am used to because I know the culture and the players as well, so the transition is not that difficult. Although it's a difficult mission, I am also ready to tackle it head on.

"My responsibilities have always been the same. I was the bridging gap between the young players and the senior team."

However, with United placed at number 14 on the Absa Premiership standings, the 47-year-old does not view the continental tournament as distraction.

The preliminary round second leg clash will be staged at the Lucas Moripe Stadium at 19:00 (CAT)