Power Dynamos head coach Oswald “Mourinho” Mutapa is confident his side’s strong domestic form can finally translate into success on the continental stage as the Zambian champions host Nigeria’s Rivers United in a crucial CAF Champions League Group A encounter this Saturday.
Domestic Momentum as Confidence Booster
Speaking during a pre-match press conference, Mutapa revealed that Power Dynamos’ recent run of three consecutive domestic victories has boosted confidence within the squad. He explained that the tight local schedule has helped improve match fitness and squad rotation, allowing players to build momentum ahead of the continental showdown at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
Mutapa stressed that despite their struggles in Africa so far, the team is approaching the fixture with renewed belief, fully aware that they are still searching for their first points in the group stage after suffering two defeats.
Concern Over Chance Conversion
While encouraged by defensive solidity, the Power Dynamos coach admitted concern over his side’s inefficiency in front of goal. He noted that his team has been creating more than ten chances per match in recent games but failing to convert enough of them.
However, Mutapa believes the fact that Power Dynamos have not conceded in their recent domestic matches provides a strong foundation. He remains optimistic that maintaining defensive discipline could allow his side to nick a crucial goal or two against Rivers United.
Learning from Continental Setbacks
Reflecting on their CAF Champions League campaign so far, Mutapa acknowledged the pain of losses suffered against RS Berkane and reigning champions Pyramids FC. He particularly highlighted the home performance against Pyramids, where Power Dynamos showed character, intensity, and created several chances but were undone by poor finishing.
According to Mutapa, that performance remains a key reference point as his side prepares for Saturday’s encounter, believing it demonstrated that they can compete at this level despite the results not going their way.
Opposition Analysis and Group Context
Mutapa confirmed that the technical bench has closely monitored Rivers United using various technological platforms as part of their match preparation. Both Power Dynamos and Rivers United enter the fixture winless, sitting third and fourth in Group A respectively, while RS Berkane and Pyramids FC lead the group with six points each.
Saturday’s match therefore represents a must-win scenario for both sides as they seek to revive their CAF Champions League campaigns.
Match Details and Ticket Information
The encounter will be played at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium with kickoff scheduled for 15h00. Power Dynamos have confirmed multiple ticket selling points in Kitwe and Ndola, including Ravens Country Club, Power Dynamos Secretariat, Arthur Davies Stadium, Tresmos Pleasure Resort, Sijonamoro Investment along Broadway, and Skyprint.
Ticket prices have been set at K20 for East, North, and South wings, K30 for the West Wing, and K200 for VIP access.
Conclusion
As the MTN Super League leaders continue to dominate locally, Saturday’s clash presents Power Dynamos with a critical opportunity to finally reflect that dominance on the continental stage. With Mutapa urging his players to build on domestic momentum and sharpen their finishing, all eyes will be on Levy Mwanawasa Stadium as the Yellow Submarine look to ignite their CAF Champions League journey.
