KwaZulu-Natal born coach Zungu Nkosi
By: Refilwe Sebola
Despite finishing at the bottom of the SAFA Limpopo ABC Motsepe League with only 12 points from 21 games, Thlothlokwe Golden Syrup head coach Zungu Nkosi remains hopeful and committed to the club—provided the team avoids relegation.
Coach Nkosi, originally from KwaZulu-Natal, took over the struggling club with just eight games left in the season. During that brief period, he secured two victories and three draws, earning 9 points out of a possible 24. His tenure included a memorable 4-0 victory against Musina United, one of the season’s top championship contenders.
“I wish I had come in earlier,” Nkosi remarked. “With a bit more time and preparation, I believe we could have avoided this position.”
Indeed, Nkosi’s first game in charge resulted in a narrow 1-0 defeat to Munaca, a match he led without having a single training session with the squad. Subsequent matches showed improvement, but the challenge proved too daunting. Ultimately, the team finished five points shy of second-from-bottom Black Leopards, who concluded the campaign with 17 points.
However, they might find salvation not on the pitch but in the boardroom. SAFA Limpopo, which chose not to relegate any teams last season, is reportedly considering expanding the league. Current speculation suggests that the two streams of 12 teams each could be increased to 14 per stream. If this happens, Thlothlokwe may yet retain its place in the league.
Nkosi has made it clear that he is willing to continue with the club if it remains in the division. “I see potential in this team. The players’ response in these last few games has been positive. I’d like to build on that,” he said.
Supporters have rallied behind the coach, many expressing that his brief tenure showcased promise and wishing he had been appointed earlier in the season. As SAFA’s decision approaches, the fate of Thlothlokwe Golden Syrup—and Coach Nkosi’s future with the club—hangs in the balance.
Only time will tell if the rumored league expansion becomes a lifeline or merely wishful thinking.Zungu