CAF CL: Bianchi still optimistic ahead of Simba clash
Vipers SC head coach Beto Bianchi is still optimistic that his side can make it to the knockout stage of the Caf Champions League despite being on the bottom of their group.
The Venoms have got to roll down their sleeves as they face Tanzanian giants Simba SC in the return leg on Match Day Four of the Caf Champions League group stage.
Vipers lost 1-0 to Simba last week at St Mary’s Stadium in Kitende to make it three defeats in a row.
However, that has not dampened the spirit of Coach Beto Bianchi’s troops ahead of this regional derby.
“We have one point but mathematically it’s possible for us to qualify. We played well in Kampala and had more chances but Simba outmuscled us because of their players’ experience.”
“We were found lacking in set pieces and a bit defensively shaky.”
“It was a game of fine margins and once you miss a few details in CAF group stage matches, that is enough to cost you dearly and forthwith your exit.”
“This time round we are looking not to commit mistakes and instead we want to create as many scoring opportunities like we did in the first leg in Uganda.”
“We respect Simba but like Simba came and won, it’s possible for us to win as well. Hopefully we can improve in our final third.”
🔴 | BETO BIANCHI SPEAKS
Coach Bianchi had this to say ahead of today’s match against Simba SC.
🗣 | “We have one point but mathematically it’s possible. We played well in Kampala and had more chances”#TotalEnergiesCAFCL | #VenomsUpdates | #OneTeamOneDream pic.twitter.com/0qvv5WxOGd
— 𝐕𝐢𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐥𝐮𝐛 (@VipersSC) March 7, 2023
Bright Anukani misses out after contracting malaria earlier this week.
Murushid Juuko is nursing an ankle injury he suffered during their StarTimes Uganda Premier League game against Wakiso Giants FC.
Marvin Joseph Youngman is still out going through his rehabilitation process.
Midfielder Olivier Osomba returns to the team after overcoming a hip problem that saw him miss the first leg of this encounter in Kampala.
Team Captain Milton Karisa, who suffered a hamstring injury in the first leg will not be on the field of play as he adjudged to remain on the sidelines for three to four weeks.