By Angela Bambala Bwalya
Kansanshi Dynamos head coach Tenant Makinka expects a stern challenge when his side travel to Mazabuka to face FC MUZA in a Week 30 MTN Super League fixture on Wednesday, as the Mabanga Boys look to return to winning ways.
Kansanshi sit 13th on the table with 32 points and head into the match seeking a response after a narrow 1-0 defeat to ZESCO United in their last outing.
Makinka believes MUZA’s youthful and fearless style of play makes them one of the more difficult sides to face.
“We are in Mazabuka for what will obviously be a very tough game,” Makinka said.
“Facing MUZA, a very youthful side, a team that enjoys playing. I’ve watched them a couple of times and they play under no pressure, so it’s difficult to play a team like that.
“They are not scared to lose the ball. They are so composed and they can look for the ball like the game is just easy. So we know it’s not going to be easy. We have to play properly and try to match them.”
The Kansanshi boss said ball retention will be central to their approach, particularly in an away fixture, and believes his side has made clear progress in that area in recent weeks.
“Away from home, obviously, our aim is to keep the ball well. Ball retention has improved so much in the team over the past four to five games. We’re keeping the ball well, so we will continue with the same approach,” he said.
Despite the setback against ZESCO, Makinka feels the squad has used the nine-day break effectively and is showing positive signs ahead of the trip to Nakambala Stadium.
“We’re coming from a loss. We played a difficult game against ZESCO United and I think this one is going to be difficult too.
“But the boys look ready and the movement is a bit swifter than before. Also, how we kept the ball last game we didn’t do much, but during training we did well and everyone is looking good. We expect a good game. Tough, but it will be a nice game even for supporters to watch.”
FC MUZA, currently eighth with 42 points, come into the game after a goalless draw with Green Buffaloes in the league, followed by a 5-4 penalty shootout defeat to Mufulira Wanderers in the ABSA Cup quarter-finals.
The reverse fixture earlier this season ended goalless. Kansanshi have also enjoyed the better of recent meetings between the two sides, losing just once in their last five encounters, with three wins and one draw.
Kick-off is set for 15:00 local time at Nakambala Stadium in Mazabuka.
