By Michael Madyira
Sekhukhune United edged visiting Clube Desportivo Lunda-Sul 2-1 but that was not enough to earn them a ticket into the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.
It was the second preliminary round which ended 2-2 on aggregate but the Angolans sailed through on away goals rule, having won the first leg 1-0.
Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Keletso Makgalwa gave Babina Noko hopes of overturning the away leg deficit when he found the back of the net after 25 minutes.
But the visitors hit back through Brazilian defender Guilherme Neto on 34 minutes before Makgalwa completed his brace in the 68th minute.
Sekhukhune then struggled to reclaim the lead for a second consecutive participation in the group phase of this competition, leaving their visitors to go through.
Coach Lehlohonolo Seema was on the bench after missing the first leg while attending a coaching course in Lesotho.
The former Orlando Pirates captain started goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner ahead of Ali Badra Sangara and Lloyd Kazapua.
Defenders Daniel Cardoso and Katlegho Mohamme were back after being benched in the midweek match against Magesi.
Captain Linda Mntambo returned from injury while midfielder Shaune Mogaila was also back.
Makgalwa’s goal handed Babina Niko’s hopes of a comeback but Guilherme’s goal proved gave CD Lunda-Sul’s a ticket to the group stage.
Even after Makgalwa grabbed his brace, it could not inspire them to increase their lead.
Following their exit from the continental competition, Sekhulkhune will now fully focus on the Premier Soccer League.
Pictured above: Sekhukhune United defender Katlego Mohamme tries to clear danger against CD Lunda-Sul
Source; Sekhukhune United
