“A journey of 1000 miles begins with one step,” Siphiwe ‘Shabba’ Tshabalala said in a short thank you speech on behalf of Kaizer Chiefs as the squad attended a reception hosted by South African Ambassador Mbulelo Bungane at his residence in Moroni, Comoros, on Saturday afternoon. “We know that we have to uphold the pride of the nation by performing well in this competition.”

Kaizer Chiefs are facing Comoros’ Volcan Club de Moroni in the first leg of the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League at Stade de Moroni this Sunday afternoon (kick-off is at 14:00, South African time).

“We will do our best to win the match,” the Amakhosi captain continued, “it’s our goal that our African journey will eventually lead to the Champions League final.”

“We thank the South African Embassy staff for their hospitality and in particular the Ambassador for his encouraging words,” Shabba concluded.

The squad was served a typical South African lunch, much to the delight of the players and Chiefs’ head of delegation, Football Manager Bobby Motaung.

South African Ambassador Bungane noted in his address that Amakhosi must believe that it is achievable to win the Champions League this year.

“We wish you all of the best in this African Champions League competition,” the Ambassador started of his speech. “Chiefs are a great team and they have produced many championships and are also the current PSL champions.”

“You are beginning a journey to conquer Africa. It won’t be easy, but you are more than capable of achieving this feat. You have the talent, the skills, the resources, the experience and a great technical team led by coach Steve Komphela. As individuals and as a team, you must really believe that you can become the champions. Without this belief in your mind and the willingness to do all to get there, you won’t succeed.”

“There will be challenges, but these must not deter you from reaching your goal,” the Ambassador pointed to some concerns about refereeing in African club competitions.

“It is your choice and the opportunity to win the Champions League is in your hands. You owe this victory to yourselves, to the millions of your supporters, to your partners and families, to the owners of the team and to all of us in South Africa,” Ambassador Bungane stressed, before adding with a smile on his face: “I am looking forward to receive an invite for the Champions League final later this year. Good luck and all of the best.”

The second leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary round will take place at the Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday evening, 27 February.