As Nkana hope to outscore the Algerians
The Algerian team took control of their CAF confederation Cup first round qualifying tie with a routine victory over the Nkana side that had earlier managed to silence them in the first half.
Belouizdad shrugged off a sloppy form in the local league to record a comfortable 3-0 success over a determined Nkana in the first leg to make them favorite coming into this second leg.
CR Belouizdad head coach Rachid Taoussi had to contend with a spate of poor league results in the build-up to the first leg clash at 20,000 capacity Stade 20 Août 1955 stadium , but those selected put on an impressive display that saw them grab the 3 goals in the second half after Nkana strides form in the first half.
The home side were dominant throughout the encounter in Algeria, as Nkana struggled to cope with their opponents’ play and rarely threatened.
Should they complete their victory over the two legs, Taoussi ‘s side will qualify to the Pre Group Stage play off in the CAF Confederation Cup while Nkana will be knocked out
Benkablia Goal put Belouizdad ahead after 46 minutes, and that strike was quickly followed up by one from Lamhene in the 59th minute before Draoui scored the third in the 71st minute to condemn Nkana to a 3-0 loss in Algeria.
That third goal had CR Belouizdad in total control, and it was a position they never looked like relinquishing as Taoussi ‘s men earned a significant advantage ahead of the second leg.
Second Leg
It’s on this weekend with an early kick off of 14:00hrs were Nkana will be expected to score 4 unanswered to turn the tie around. Anything less is not good enough.
On the local front, Nkana are coming from a morale boosting encounter in the season opening Samuel Zoom Njobvu Charity Shield final were they beat the favourite Zesco United, 4-3 in the final.
The team though will be worried at their inept and failure to keep their rear tight. That is also the worry of Bestone Chambeshi who who is spoiled with attacking options and has headache selection options at the back.
CR Belouizdad are without a doubt favourite but should be cautious with the Nkana forwards.
While Nkana can easily win the tie , the defensive record is a source of concern. The team is conceding too many goals as it is shown in the last two games they have played. They have conceded 6 and forced 4.
The inability to rectify these shortcomings will eventually cost the team a stay in the CAF Confederation Cup.
My view is that Nkana will win this encounter but not enough to take them through. The job was poorly done in Algeria.
My Prediction : Nkana 3-1 CR Belouizdad
