Sekhukhune United bullish ahead of Stade Malien test

Babina Noko touched down in Bamako on the eve of their crunch Group D encounter at Stade du 26 Mars this evening (18:00), with almost no time to get acquainted with the playing environment.

However, Seema, speaking to the media in the pre-match briefing at the match venue, insisted this would not deter their efforts of trying to get the desired victory.

"This team of ours is very strong mentally, and we are ready to play anytime – even if they asked us to play now [Tuesday], we are ready, we came prepared," declared Seema.

"It's just a case of guys getting a feel of the field, and then we'll be ready. That [not training at kick-off time] is not going to be a problem, we are up for the fight."

Having met one another in Polokwane just 10 days ago, the former Polokwane City, Chippa United and Bloemfontein Celtic mentor feels their intel on Malien – and vice-versa – remains fresh, therefore providing a sufficient platform for their preparations.

"I don't think the sweat on theirs or our jerseys have even dried because we just met not so long ago, and I'm sure they know now what to expect from us," he added.

"And we also know what to expect from them, but it's going to be a very difficult game because we know both teams need to win to have an upper hand [in the group]."

Tied with their opponents on four points a piece, and trailing group leaders RS Berkane by five points, captain Daniel Cardoso knows the value of claiming three points in this encounter before the campaign goes on a recess until February next year.

"I think we've had worse trips than this. As players, I think it's a mindset, a lot of us know what's at stake, and we can't wait to get on the field, take the lactic acid out and get going," said Cardoso.

"It's not going to be an easy one – we played them just over a week ago, but we are ready."

Catch the action LIVE on SABC Sport Channel and sabcsport.com from 18:00 this evening.