Rachael Kaphaizi

Blue Eagles head coach Dleklek Msakakuona says his team is ready for a challenging battle against Civil Service United in Saturday’s Airtel Top 8 quarter-final second leg at Civil Stadium.

The tie is evenly poised after the first leg ended in a goalless draw at Bingu National Stadium, with both teams chasing a place in the semi-finals.

Msakakuona anticipates a closely contested encounter, with both teams determined to secure a positive result.

“It will be a tough match because both teams want to qualify for the semi-finals. But as Blue Eagles, we are prepared, and the boys are ready,” he said.

Msakakuona admitted his side’s finishing let them down in the first leg, despite creating several scoring opportunities. He said the team has spent the week focusing on being more clinical in front of goal.

“In the first leg, we created chances but failed to convert them. This match will determine our fate in the 2026 edition, so we have focused on creating chances and scoring. I am confident the boys will deliver,” said Msakakuona.

Msakakuona also dismissed suggestions that Civil’s technical panel, which includes coaches who previously worked with Blue Eagles, gives the opponents an advantage.

He noted that although the coaches understand Blue Eagles’ style of play, the current squad is largely made up of new players, making the team different from previous seasons.

“They may know how Blue Eagles play, but we also know how Civil plays. We are aware of the players who can cause us problems and know how to handle them,” he added.

Blue Eagles and Civil Service United will clash again on Saturday at Civil Stadium, with the winner earning a place in the Airtel Top 8 semi-finals after their goalless first leg at Bingu National Stadium.