AmaZulu target stronger finish as Zwane sets sights on continental football

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane believes his side can challenge Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates this season as they aim to improve on last term’s fourth-place finish.

Usuthu have made an impressive start to the campaign and sit third in the league with 19 points, four behind leaders Sundowns.

Zwane acknowledged that the season is still at an early stage and that the standings could change, but said AmaZulu were confident of competing for a place in continental football next season.

“Yes, we do have goals like any other teams, but the league is a marathon; you never know what’s going to happen as the season progresses,” Zwane told the media after Wednesday’s Carling Knockout last-16 draw in Johannesburg.

“We fancy our chances. We really want to go and compete on the continent next season because as a group, we are growing in status.

“That will be a very good experience for this group of players. My first season with coach Kanu [Vusumuzi Vilakazi] we finished in position six. The following campaign we finished fourth.

“We are always aiming high, so we need to improve from last season.”

AmaZulu will face Kruger United in the last 16 of the Carling Knockout, with the match presenting Zwane’s team with another opportunity to maintain their progress.

Although Kruger have found results difficult to secure during their debut campaign, Zwane said his players would not underestimate them.

“These are tough games, considering we are playing against a team that hasn’t been getting results. I think they have won one game, conceded 10 goals and scored one at home,” he said.

“The game they won was away from home, and for them to beat TS Galaxy at home, that tells you that they are a good side. They have been unfortunate not to grab points here and there.

“Us going to them, it’s going to be a battle and we will have to bring our A-game to make sure we go to the next round.”

AmaZulu’s coach also said the backing of the club’s management had helped create a positive working environment.

“So far, so good. We need to keep grinding results because the games come thick and fast,” he said.

Zwane began his time working with Kanu by guiding AmaZulu to sixth place before they moved up to fourth in the following campaign. The coach said the team’s continued ambition meant they were determined not to stand still, with continental competition now the next target.

The challenge will be to maintain their league form while managing a demanding schedule, starting with the cup tie against Kruger United.