AmaZulu Plan to Take Advantage of Chiefs’ Loss in Derby
AmaZulu co-coach Vusi Vilakazi is eager to take advantage of Kaizer Chiefs’ recent struggles when the teams meet at FNB Stadium on Tuesday. Chiefs are still reeling from a heartbreaking last-minute loss to Orlando Pirates at the same venue last Saturday.
Patrick Maswanganyi’s controversial Panenka penalty ensured the win for Pirates during the sold-out Soweto derby. These emotionally charged matches can weigh heavily on players’ minds, and AmaZulu aims to exploit the quick turnaround for Chiefs.
“We must capitalize on the opportunity created by their recent defeat,” stated Vilakazi, whose team approaches the match with momentum following a win over SuperSport United at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
“Recovering from a loss to a win can be tough, but we come in full of confidence from a hard-fought victory.
“We strongly believe that if we perform to our capabilities, we can achieve great things on the day.
“I believe this gives us a psychological advantage, as it hints, ‘These guys just lost; let’s take advantage while they’re still reeling from it.’”
Vilakazi shares co-coaching responsibilities at AmaZulu with former Chiefs winger Arthur Zwane, who joined the squad in October. Zwane, who concluded his time as head coach with Chiefs in the 2022/23 season, where he led them to a fifth-place finish, brings a wealth of knowledge about the Amakhosi.
Zwane represented the Chiefs from 2000 to 2010, making 252 appearances, scoring 32 goals, and winning 12 trophies during that time.
Vilakazi acknowledged the importance of Zwane’s insights, considering his two decades of experience at Naturena in various roles.
“It’s clear; he (Zwane) knows Kaizer Chiefs inside out,” Vilakazi remarked, drawing laughter from the reporters present.
“Even though they have a new coach now, he understands their strengths and weaknesses. We will rely on his expertise and support him wherever we can.
“Just like my history with Gavin Hunt, against whom I have never lost, I’m excited to embrace this challenge.”