Durban City have secured a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages after producing an impressive 6-1 aggregate victory over Mauritian side AS Port Louis 2000. The South African club delivered another strong performance in the return leg, completing a successful qualification campaign and reaching an important milestone in their continental journey.

Under head coach Eric Tinkler, Durban City won the second leg 3-0 at the Côte d'Or National Sports Complex on Sunday, 25 October 2026. The result followed their 3-1 victory in the first leg at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, giving them a convincing advantage across the two matches.

Veteran forward Gaston Sirino helped set the tone by opening the scoring in the 12th minute. His early goal strengthened Durban City's position and placed additional pressure on the home side.

Haashim Domingo extended the visitors' lead in the 25th minute, making it 2-0 on the day and increasing their aggregate advantage to 5-1. Durban City continued to control the contest, showing their determination to finish the tie without relying only on their first-leg result.

The visitors maintained their momentum after the break, and substitute Ethan Brooks made an immediate contribution. He scored in the 52nd minute to complete the 3-0 win and seal the 6-1 aggregate triumph.

The achievement represents a significant step forward for Durban City, who have progressed through the qualifying rounds after also overcoming Burundi's Rukinzo.

Their qualification adds another South African club to the continental spotlight. With Kaizer Chiefs having been eliminated from the competition by Zambia's Red Arrows, Durban City's progress provides their supporters with another reason to follow the Confederation Cup campaign. Orlando Pirates, meanwhile, are competing in the CAF Champions League.

Attention will now turn to the group-stage draw, where Durban City will discover their next opponents. The upcoming stage will present a tougher test as Tinkler's side look to build on their qualifying success against more experienced continental opposition.

For Durban City, reaching the group stages is an opportunity to gain valuable international experience, strengthen the club's reputation and demonstrate their ability to compete on the African stage.

What do you think about Durban City's qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup group stages? Can Eric Tinkler's team make a strong impression against Africa's top clubs? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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