Durban City FC head coach Eric Tinkler has expressed his pride after guiding the Citizens into the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

The Durban-based side secured qualification with a convincing 3-0 victory over Mauritian outfit AS Port Louis 2000 in the second leg of their preliminary-round tie on Sunday. The result gave Durban City a commanding 6-1 aggregate win and confirmed their place in the next stage of the continental competition. durbancityfc.com +1

Tinkler praised his players for maintaining their concentration despite entering the return fixture with a two-goal advantage from the first leg. He was particularly pleased with their discipline, attacking efficiency and ability to manage the match 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,” Tinkler said. durbancityfc.com

Gastón Sirino opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Haashim Domingo extended the advantage in the 25th minute. Ethan Brooks then scored in the 52nd minute to complete the victory and put the tie beyond the reach of the Mauritian side. Confédération Africaine de Football +1

Reflecting on the achievement, Tinkler highlighted the importance of the milestone for the players, coaching staff and supporters who have backed the club during its rapid rise.

“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.”

Despite celebrating the historic qualification, Tinkler has urged his team to remain focused as the level of competition increases in the group stages. He believes the squad must continue improving if they are to make a meaningful impact in their debut continental campaign. TimesLIVE +1

Durban City will now turn their attention to domestic football, with a Carling Knockout Cup last-16 clash against Stellenbosch FC next on their schedule.

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