CAF dreams and top-eight ambitions: Arrows boss Mngqithi ready for Chippa challenge

LAMONTVILLE Golden Arrows head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has urged his players to maintain their hard work and focus as they set their sights on the visit of Chippa United to the Mpumalanga Stadium on Saturday at 3pm.

Abafana Bes'thende’s hopes of a top-eight finish are still very much alive after a hard-earned 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs in Durban last weekend. 

That win came as a welcome response to their disappointing defeat to Magesi before the international break.

With three games in hand over Chiefs (currently in eighth), Arrows are now just two points behind them, sitting in 10th place.

But there’s more to their ambitions than just breaking into the top eight. Mngqithi’s side is also eyeing a slim chance at qualification for next season's CAF Confederation Cup. 

If Arrows manage to win their two games in hand over third-placed Stellenbosch FC, they could move as close as two points to a place in Africa’s second division club competition.

While the reality of a CAF spot remains a long shot, Mngqithi isn’t dismissing it. The coach knows the importance of staying focused on each game while keeping an eye on the bigger picture. 

Despite the slim chances of a continental spot, Mngqithi is not letting his players get distracted. The immediate focus is on their next challenge – Chippa United, who have already beaten Arrows twice this season. 

Arrows suffered a 2-0 loss in the league on October 26 which was followed by a 2-1 exit in the Nedbank Cup on January 25. However, after their impressive victory over Chiefs, Arrows will be eager to reverse those results.

Chippa, too, have a lot to play for, sitting just one point ahead of Arrows in ninth place, with a game in hand. Their recent form, including back-to-back victories against Polokwane City and AmaZulu, makes them formidable opponents. 

Mngqithi was quick to praise his players’ resilience in their win over Chiefs, but he also believes there is room for improvement, particularly in front of goal. 

"We were unlucky at times, especially in the second half. We got into some good positions but didn’t make the most of them. We need to be more clinical when we have those opportunities," he said.

“The players are working very hard, and I must give them credit. Their enthusiasm and willingness to fight for every point have been impressive. At halftime against Chiefs, I had to push them because they were starting to sit back. I wanted them to take control of the second half, and they responded well.”

The next few weeks will be crucial for Arrows, as they look to stay in contention for the top eight and perhaps even set their sights on continental football. 

While a CAF Confederation Cup spot might be a long shot, Mngqithi is adamant that his players’ focus should be on the immediate challenge ahead – and they know that every point counts.