SuperSport United dominate Gaborone United in CAF Confederations Cup

In a commanding display, SuperSport United secured their spot in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages with a resounding 3-0 victory over Gaborone United on Friday evening at Peter Mokaba Stadium.

The Tshwane heavyweights showed their mettle and made a statement in the competition.

Coach Gavin Hunt's strategic line-up adjustments grabbed attention from the outset. Tanzanian international Mohamed Hamza earned his first start, while the reliable Washington Arubi took his position between the goalposts. Notably, Terrence Dzvukamanja and Bradley Grobler began the match on the bench, revealing Hunt's tactical thinking.

The action kicked off with SuperSport on the hunt, eager to make their presence felt within the opening 20 minutes. Keenan Bezuidenhout attempted to break the deadlock with a powerful free-kick, but the Gaborone United wall held firm, denying any early breakthrough.

Minutes later, 18-year-old sensation Shandre Campbell showcased his promise with a curling shot from a tight angle that tantalizingly skirted across the goal.

Gaborone, initially subdued, eventually posed a threat, but SuperSport defender Ime Okon played a vigilant role in thwarting any potential danger.

As the first half neared its conclusion, SuperSport turned up the intensity. A promising free-kick, awarded after Ghampani Lungu drew a foul, offered another opportunity. This time, it was Campbell who stepped up, but his effort failed to trouble the opposition.

SuperSport broke the deadlock 12 minutes into the second half. Ronald Pfumbidzai's pinpoint delivery met Etiosa Ighodaro, who needed no second invitation to smash the ball into the net, putting his side ahead 1-0.

With a strong desire to cement their dominance, the Tshwane outfit made their first substitution after 64 minutes. The versatile Lyle Lakay came on for Campbell, adding another layer of depth to their attacking arsenal.

As the clock ticked down, SuperSport continued to assert their superiority. Ighodaro, having already found the net once, completed his brace with a close-range finish, extending the lead to 2-0 with just 20 minutes remaining.

The icing on the cake came deep into injury time when substitute Bradley Grobler showcased his class with a beautifully taken finish, making it 3-0 on the night and securing a convincing 4-1 aggregate victory for SuperSport United.

One notable absence from the dugout was Coach Gavin Hunt, who was not eligible to sit there due to CAF's stringent coaching requirements. Despite holding a UEFA A License, CAF mandates that coaches must possess at least a CAF A License or Pro License to be on the bench.

Hunt's absence, however, did little to dampen SuperSport's spirits as they celebrated their advancement to the CAF Confederation Cup group stages in style.

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