Sekhukhune United fails to keep a clean sheet for second consecutive match as Lunda Sul secures late 1-0 victory in CAF Confederation Cup

Sekhukhune United kicked off their 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup campaign with a tough 1-0 loss against Angola’s Lunda Sul FC.

The South African side fought hard, but a late goal during stoppage time sealed their fate in this first-leg encounter.

The match took place at Estadio 11 de Novembro as part of the second preliminary round.

This season marks Lunda Sul’s debut in continental football after securing a third-place finish in their domestic league.

On the other hand, Sekhukhune United is playing in the competition for the second consecutive time.

Last season, Sekhukhune’s Confed Cup run ended in the group stages, where they managed to secure six points, with one win, three draws, and two losses.

Now, all eyes are on their upcoming second leg in South Africa.

Coach Seema Misses the Game

One of the key talking points from the match was the absence of Sekhukhune head coach Lehlohonolo Seema.

SABC Sport reported on Friday that Seema couldn’t travel with the squad to Angola, as he was attending a CAF A refresher coaching course in Lesotho.

Senior coach Kaitano Tembo, along with assistant coach Paulus Masehe, took charge in his place.

Seema is expected to return to the sidelines when Sekhukhune opens their Betway Premiership campaign against Magesi FC on Wednesday.

Kazapua Makes His Debut

In a notable development for Sekhukhune, Namibian goalkeeper Lloyd Kazapua made his first appearance for the club.

Kazapua joined Sekhukhune from fellow PSL side Chippa United earlier this season but had yet to feature in a game.

He sat on the bench during the MTN8 quarter-final while Ivory Coast’s Badra Ali Sangare started as the preferred goalkeeper.

Defensive Struggles Continue

Sekhukhune United’s defensive woes continued with this defeat, as they have now failed to keep a clean sheet in both of their matches this season.

Their MTN8 quarter-final against Cape Town City also ended in a narrow 1-0 loss, showing early concerns for their backline.

Looking Ahead

Sekhukhune will be aiming for redemption when they host the return leg on Saturday, September 21st, at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

The match kicks off at 6 p.m. in South Africa, and Babina Noko will need to overcome the 1-0 deficit to keep their CAF Confederation Cup hopes alive.