Nigerian striker writes off Mazembe’s threat

JS Kabylie Nigerian striker Izu Azuka believes that Caf Champions League holders Tout Puissant Mazembe cannot halt the ambition of his Algerian club when both sides clash in Lubumbashi in the first leg, semifinal of Africa’s elite club competition on Sunday.

The former Sharks Football Club man acknowledged that though the first leg will be tough against the cup holders, he is confident that JS Kabylie will pick a draw away from Lubumbashi on Sunday.

“It is going to be a very tough game for the two teams. JSK started this very competition well and till this very moment has not lost a match. We are leaving DR Congo with a draw because we are desperate to end this competition undefeated.

“I am very sure we are winning or either picking a draw and the second leg in Algeria is definitely ours,” said the 21-year-old striker.

Though TP Mazembe won the title last year, Azuka thinks they will crack under JS Kabylie’s impressive form so far in this year’s Caf Champions League.

“Last season and this season are not the same. They may have been the toughest team last season, but this season, other tougher teams have also emerged. Take for instance, JSK scaling through the group stage undefeated,” Azuka told SuperSport.com.

gakpayen009: Lets look at the Heartland team? Why did JSK found it easy to beat them the way they did?
Azuka Izu: just two words,determination and hardwork on the part of we the players n management
gakpayen009: ok
gakpayen009: in this year's Champions League, which club do u consider will be tough if u play against them?
Azuka Izu: it was actually the two egyptian teams,al ahly and ismaily
gakpayen009: but ur team handled them easily?
Azuka Izu: yeah
gakpayen009: and were u surprised dat JSK defeated Ismaily home and away and even did very well against Al Ahly?
Azuka Izu: not that surprised bcos i knew we have a good team too.