Durban City FC head coach Eric Tinkler has praised his side’s discipline and mentality after the Citizens secured their place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages with a 3–0 victory over AS Port Louis 2000 in Mauritius.
City completed a 6–1 aggregate victory in the second preliminary round, following their 3–1 win at Moses Mabhida Stadium in the first leg last week.
Despite taking a two-goal advantage into the return leg at the Côte d’Or National Sports Complex, Tinkler was pleased with the way his players approached the encounter, maintaining their focus and delivering another convincing performance away from home.
“I’m very pleased with the performance. We came here knowing we had a job to do, despite winning the first leg, and the players approached the game with the right mentality. We were disciplined, clinical in front of goal and managed the game well,” said Tinkler.
Gastón Sirino opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Domingo Haashim doubled City’s advantage in the 25th minute. Ethan Brooks added a third in the 52nd minute, scoring his first goal for the Club and putting the finishing touch on a commanding display.
The victory marks a historic achievement for Durban City FC, with the Club reaching the CAF Confederation Cup group stages for the first time in its history following its Nedbank Cup triumph last season.
Tinkler acknowledged the achievement, recognising the contribution of the players, technical team and supporters as the Club prepares for the next stage of its continental campaign.
“This is a very important achievement for Durban City FC. It’s our first-ever continental campaign, and reaching the group stages is a proud moment for the Club, the players, the technical team and everyone who has supported us. We’re delighted, but we also know there is more work ahead,” he said.
With their continental qualification secured, the Citizens will now shift their focus to domestic competition when they host Stellenbosch FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 on Wednesday, 28 October 2026. The match kicks off at 19:00 at Chatsworth Stadium, with City looking to carry their winning form into the knockout tie.
