How Mine coach Kelvin Kaindu and former Zesco United player Zimiseleni Moyo have tipped the Zambian side to triumph over South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the second semi final of the CAF champions this weekend.

Moyo who won three league titles with Zesco before returning home to play for Tsholotsho said the Ndola based side has been rising as a dominant force not only in Zambia but also on the continent after becoming the first Zambian side to reach the champions’ league group stages in 2009.

“Not many people gave Zesco a chance before the first leg against Mamelodi Sundowns because Sundowns are more popular due to the power of the South African media. But Zesco are more experienced in the continental tournaments as they have been dominant in Zambia over the past years,” said Moyo.

“They have invested a lot in the past years. I think they can go to win the champions league itself and even the world club championships. They have quality players and in the champions league if you win at home it’s key. It’s not something they are new to; they have been there in the trenches before and did well.

Kaindu believes the proximity of South Africa to Zambia will come in handy for Zesco as they will have a contingent of supporters both travelling and Zambians resident in South Africa.

“I think Zesco will pull through because they managed to get a crucial win at home. It might be a slender lead but that is an important win for a club like them who have experience playing in Africa. Also we have a lot of Zambians resident in South Africa who will come to give supporters to the players. Also some players can even travel to South Africa for the match so in terms of support, they will not be intimidated,” said Kaindu.

Striker Jackson Mwanza scored a brace as Zesco beat Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 in the first leg last week. Khama Billiat grabbed an important away goal for the South Africans late in the in the match.

CAF Champions League Semis
Mamelodi Sundowns v Zesco United (Lucas Moripe Stadium)       
Wydad Casablanca    v Zamalek (Complexe Prince Moulay)