TECH

AmaZulu Aims to Capitalize on Chiefs’ Derby Defeat

AmaZulu co-coach Vusi Vilakazi is keen to seize the opportunity presented by Kaizer Chiefs’ recent difficulties when the two teams clash at FNB Stadium on Tuesday. Chiefs are still coping with the sting of a last-minute defeat to Orlando Pirates at the same location last Saturday.

Patrick Maswanganyi’s debatable Panenka penalty secured a victory for Pirates during the sold-out Soweto derby. The intensity of these matches often weighs heavily on players, and AmaZulu intends to capitalize on the swift turnaround for Chiefs.

“We need to take advantage of the situation created by their recent loss,” Vilakazi emphasized, as his team enters the match riding high after their win against SuperSport United at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

“Bouncing back from a defeat to secure a victory can be challenging, but we are filled with confidence from our hard-earned win.

“We firmly believe that if we perform to the best of our abilities, we can accomplish great things on the day.

“I believe this gives us a psychological edge, suggesting, ‘These players just faced a defeat; let’s make the most of their current state.’”

Vilakazi shares coaching duties at AmaZulu with former Chiefs winger Arthur Zwane, who joined the team in October. Zwane, who ended his tenure as head coach with Chiefs in the 2022/23 season, where he guided them to a fifth-place finish, brings extensive knowledge of the Amakhosi.

Zwane played for the Chiefs from 2000 to 2010, making 252 appearances, scoring 32 goals, and winning 12 trophies throughout his career.

Vilakazi acknowledged the value of Zwane’s insights, considering his two decades of experience at Naturena in various capacities.

“It’s evident; he (Zwane) knows Kaizer Chiefs very well,” Vilakazi remarked, eliciting laughter from the journalists present.

“Even though they now have a new coach, he understands their strengths and weaknesses. We will lean on his expertise and support him in every way possible.

“Just like my history with Gavin Hunt, whom I have never lost to, I’m looking forward to taking on this challenge.”

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