Krmpotic, who was Patrice Cateron’s assistant when TP Mazembe won the CAF Champions League in 2015, was in attendance at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening as he watched his CAF Confederation Cup opponents down Kaizer Chiefs 2-1, taking notes ahead of next month’s two-legged quarter-final showdown against Matsatsantsa.
snl24.com/kickoff managed to chat to the decorated manager, a former Yugoslavia international and Red Star Belgrade star, who watched on as SuperSport beat Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 in the Absa Premiership on Wednesday.
“Kaizer Chiefs didn't put the sort of performance that was expected from them, while SuperSport played well in the first half,” he tells this website.
“In the second half Kaizer Chiefs improved, but it was not enough.
“SuperSport usually play 4-3-3, but in the second half they switched to 4-4-2, but it didn't work out well so they returned to their usual formation. They are a quality team that can adjust depending on the situation.”
Zesco finished top of Group C in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages, yet their coach feels they are the underdogs against South Africa’s Nedbank Cup champions.
“I expect a tough game. We have our goals and we will do our best. We are coming to make our way through, although SuperSport are favourites on paper,” the 59-year-old says, before insisting he feels there is no one particular dangerman in the United set-up.
“I see one very good team. I wouldn't say we have to watch out for anyone in particular. Every player in their team has a good player.”
Krmpotic, who is represented by South African agency On The Ball Sports Management, says he is looking forward to his first test against a South African club, having been impressed by the standard of the local game.
“This will be my first time facing South African team,” he says. “Conditions here are great and they undoubtedly play quality football.”
Zesco, who are currently top of the Zambian league standings after 23 matches played, will travel to Pretoria for the first leg of the Confederation Cup quarter-final, scheduled for Saturday, 16 September.