Mpheni Defenders owner and coach Sydwell Phuravhathu.
By: Refilwe Sebola
Sydwell Phuravhathu, the owner and coach of Mpheni Defenders, has confidently pledged that his team will deliver their best performance in the upcoming match against Ramatlhaohle United in the Limpopo Nedbank Cup preliminary round finals.
The two-time reigning champions of the ABC Motsepe League Stream A are set to face the formidable Hollywoodbets side, Ramatlhaohle United, this Sunday at Mahwelereng Stadium in Mokopane, to secure a spot in the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup.
Mpheni, affectionately known as “The Bulls,” qualified for the Limpopo provincial finals after an impressive 1-0 victory over Ngwaabe City Motors in the ABC Motsepe League Nedbank Cup preliminary round final at Oscar Mpetha Stadium at the University of Limpopo.
They last qualified for the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup in February 2023 where they progressed to the last 16 of the competition following a dominant 3-0 victory over Clarewood, a Capetown-based ABC Motsepe League side, at Thohoyandou Stadium. However, they were ultimately eliminated by Premier Soccer League side Chippa United, who edged them out 2-0 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
Phuravhathu expressed his respect for Ramatlhaohle United’s recent strong performance, particularly highlighting their 1-0 victory against the formidable Phalaborwa United, which secured their spot in the final. “I’ve seen them play, and I can confidently say they are a capable side. Beating Phalaborwa United, which has experienced players from both the National First Division and ABC Motsepe League, showcases their strength. We are aware of their capabilities, and we will be prepared,” said Phuravhathu.
Despite facing challenges in recent league matches, including a 2-1 loss to Nkowankowa Continental and a goalless draw against Munaca, Phuravhathu remains optimistic that Mpheni Defenders will progress to the last 32.