AMAZULU players hard at training as they aim to end the season strong.
Image: @AmaZuluFootball/X
AmaZulu have been hard at work in recent days preparing for a strong finish to the season, which is why captain Riaan Hanamub says they need the right approach for the final seven games.
Usuthu are currently fourth in the Betway Premiership with 38 points, one behind third-placed Kaizer Chiefs, who have two games in hand.
Given Chiefs’ advantage, it may be difficult for AmaZulu to finish in the top three and secure continental qualification. Nonetheless, a fourth-place finish would still be a significant achievement.
When club president Sandile Zungu took over a few years ago, he stated his ambition for the club to reflect its status as one of the country’s top four in terms of support – alongside Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.
That ambition could become reality again for the first time since historic second-place finish during the 2020/21 season under Benni McCarthy.
In ensuring they at least maintain their current position while applying pressure on Chiefs, Hanamub outlined the approach needed to end the campaign strongly.
“We drew against Sekhukhune United in the last game and if I’m being honest, it wasn’t a true reflection of the match,” Hanamub said. “We played tremendously well and created chances. So, we need to make sure that we convert the opportunities we create.
“We need to keep the boys in good spirits because we know what they are capable of. Also, the second half of the season is tough – we can’t rely on what we did earlier and think it will be easy.
“It’s going to be hard. So, the character and mentality we show will play a big role in these games for the rest of the season.”
AmaZulu’s next fixture will be away to Siwelele at Dr Molemela Stadium on Saturday afternoon (3pm kick-off). Having won the reverse fixture 2-0 in Durban, Usuthu will travel to Bloemfontein as favourites, but goalkeeper Olwethu Mzimela has warned against complacency.
“We have prepared well as a team. We know the importance of this game and the remaining matches,” Mzimela said. “We are fully focused, and we remember how we performed against them in the first leg.
“They are a different team now, and so are we. We expect them to adjust their style of play, but we need to work hard and ensure that we get three points.”
Mzimela added that they are aware of the threat posed by the home crowd, which is why unity will be key.
“We know this is an away game – they have a strong support base and are dangerous at home. So, we need to stay united, support each other, and ensure that we get maximum points,” he said.