AmaZulu push for an African spot, motivated by Durban City's success

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane says they are highly motivated to join Durban City in the CAF Confederation Cup next season, adding further reward to the foundation laid by the KwaZulu-Natal top-flight clubs.

AmaZulu are among the most improved teams not only in KZN, but in the elite league this season. They are currently fourth on the standings – a long-standing target of club president Sandile Zungu since taking over a few years ago.

Usuthu’s season could get even better, as they are within touching distance of a third-place finish, which guarantees qualification for the Confederation Cup next season. They trail third-placed Chiefs by five points with four games to play.

Qualification would see Usuthu join rivals Durban City in the competition next season, with the Farook Kadodia-owned club having secured their place after winning the Nedbank Cup – their maiden trophy – in their first season back in the top flight.

Speaking ahead of their league clash against provincial rivals Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday night (7.30pm kick-off), Zwane explained what finishing third and qualifying for Africa would mean for his relatively young squad.

“That would be great, trust me,” Zwane said. “We really want to go to Africa for these players. They’ve worked hard, so they deserve it – that’s my belief.

“Africa will test them differently, and it will help them grow quicker in terms of understanding the game and playing at that level.”

With Chiefs set to face Mamelodi Sundowns in a top-of-the-table clash at the same time on Wednesday night, a defeat for them could benefit Usuthu.

That would mean Zwane and his side would have their fate in their own hands, needing to win all four remaining matches – including beating Chiefs in the penultimate game – to secure third place.

“Most definitely, it would be in our hands. That’s why we know we are under pressure, but we welcome and embrace it,” Zwane said. “Football is about that. It will be a good test. The last four games must bring out the best in us.”

The rise of KZN teams this season – with Usuthu chasing Top-3 finish, Durban City winning the Nedbank Cup, Richards Bay turning uMhlathuze Sport Complex into a fortress, and Arrows competing for a Top 8 spot – has pleased Zwane, particularly after clubs invested in local and youthful talent.

“It seems this year has been a great one for KZN teams. This comes at a time when people were saying they are restructuring, so it shows that the direction taken by the owners and boards is paying off,” Zwane said.

“These things take time, but already they are showing it was a step in the right direction. Some clubs are already enjoying the rewards of those decisions.”

The fight for third place continues against Arrows, and given the stakes, Zwane expects an exciting encounter – even if he considers his side underdogs.

“After a long time, it’s probably going to be a derby that produces fireworks because we are playing for positions,” he said. “They come into the game with an upper hand, regardless of previous results.

“But the last game we played here is gone. We are focused on ourselves. We want results, and we know it’s going to be tough.”