Newly appointed Mpheni Defenders coach Zungu Nkosi (right) with team boss Sydwell Phuravhathu during their training session
By: Refilwe Sebola
Newly appointed Mpheni Defenders head coach Zungu Nkosi is aiming high as he prepares his side for their Nedbank Cup preliminary round clash against Lebash FC this Saturday at Nkowankowa Stadium.
Nkosi, who previously guided Thlothlokwe Golden Syrup, has taken charge of last season’s Nedbank Cup Last 32 participants and is determined to repeat that success with his new team. Ironically, his opponents this weekend are his former club, Lebash FC, where he spent part of last season before moving to Golden Syrup toward the end of the campaign.
Despite his familiarity with the opposition, Nkosi insists there will be no room for complacency. “Their players are self-motivated because they want a victory against a big team of Mpheni’s calibre. We won’t take them lightly — that would be a big mistake,” he said. “However, our team is ready, and we are doing a good job with the technical team to prepare for the game. Our technical team is working very well together.”
Speaking about his new role and the environment at Mpheni Defenders, Nkosi expressed appreciation for the club’s professional structure and the warm welcome he received. “I was properly received in the team with a warm welcome,” he said. “Our team is balanced, and the planning from the management is very professional. They are organized and plan for everything. It’s easy to work here — the players are happy and ready to deliver because they have strong support.”
With confidence high and preparation well underway, Nkosi and his technical team are hopeful that Mpheni Defenders can once again book their place among South Africa’s top 32 teams in this season’s Nedbank Cup.
Saturday’s Fixtures: Nkowankowa Continental vs Phalaborwa United; Lebash FC vs Mpheni Defenders.
The winners of the two matches will face each other in the final at 15h00. The first game kicks off at 09h00.