Stellenbosch FC defender Fawaaz Basadien says the underdog tag will allow his side to play with freedom when they face Simba SC in the Caf Confederation Cup.
Stellies trail 1-0 after the first leg in Tanzania and will host the return match at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, looking to overturn the deficit and secure a historic spot in the final.
Despite the narrow loss away from home, Basadien believes the pressure is firmly on the Tanzanian giants to get the job done.
“No one expected us to get a result against Simba, especially away. We tried, but we didn’t achieve what we wanted. Coming into the second leg, there isn’t much pressure on us to reach the final, the pressure is more on them. This gives us the freedom to enjoy ourselves and simply play for the occasion.,” said the defender.
The Bafana Bafana defender, who captained Stellenbosch in the first leg, remains optimistic about their chances.
“The fixture is still salvageable. They (Simba) weren’t happy with the 1-0 scoreline because they know coming here is going to be difficult. We definitely stand a chance of going to the next round,” he added.
Stellenbosch have enjoyed a dream run in their debut continental campaign, famously knocking out defending champions Zamalek FC and RS Berkane on their road to the semi-finals.
Coach Steve Barker’s men will now look to produce another upset against Simba and continue their fairytale in Africa.
