12/14/2011 1:25 AM - Black Leopards have confirmed their participation in Africa, and say they are definitely confident of going through to the next stage.

Leopards, who are making their maiden appearance in African club competition, qualified to play after meeting Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup last season.
Speaking to the official club website, Leopards Media Officer Tendani Thidiela says that the squad is in good shape and have prepared themselves to take on Motor Action.

"We have confirmed our participation in Africa. And have drawn against motor action from Zimbabwe. We start home on the weekend of the 17th of February 2012 and the return leg on the weekend of the 2nd of march 2012.

"Zimbwabwe isn’t known to have a strong league in the continent but are regular participants in the tournament, so it will be a very interesting fixture for us.

"This is our first visit into Africa for an official game, and we are confident of going through to the next stage," the 'Lidoda Duvha' spokesperson said.

"We have experienced international players such as the likes of Postnet Omony, Davie Banda, Harry Nyirenda, Bernedict Vilikazi, Joshua Obaje, and Rodney Ramagelela who has made regular trips into Africa with the national u23 team.

"They are sure to prove valuable in us preparing mentally for these fixtures."- said the media officer.

Motor Action finished third in Zimbabwe’s Premier League last season and will present a challenge for Lidoda Duvha.

Assuming Leopards advance to the first round proper, they will meet St Eloi Lupopo from DR Congo, a team South African fans might remember from the Vodacom Challenge tournament in 2003. Lupopo also finished third in the 2011 DR Congo Championship.