AmaZulu aching to exploit under pressure Sekhukhune United, says Usuthu coach Simo Dladla

AmaZulu assistant coach Simo Dladla is confident his side can take advantage of a Sekhukhune United team feeling the pressure as the two sides meet on Wednesday at the Peter Mokaba Stadium for a 7.30pm kick-off.

Sekhukhune are one of the teams that have started the Betway Premiership season brightly, winning their first three games and showcasing cohesion under coach Eric Tinkler. 

AmaZulu, meanwhile, have recorded two wins and a loss in their opening three fixtures, placing them among the early contenders but still chasing consistency.

“It’s obviously not gonna be an easy game because Sekhukhune plays very well and have an experienced coach as well as experienced players,” Dladla said.

“But we’re playing them at the right time because we recently saw them playing against Stellenbosch and we picked up a few areas that we feel we can exploit.”

Sekhukhune’s strong start has put them in the spotlight, but recent results and the pressure of maintaining their momentum make them vulnerable to a determined AmaZulu side. 

Dladla sees this as a key opportunity for Usuthu to secure a result against a team that has impressed early in the season.

“We’re looking forward to getting another positive result. It’s a big test, yes, more especially because they’re playing at home, but they are also under pressure to not lose two games in a row at home,” he added.

AmaZulu’s trip to Limpopo is a double challenge, with a clash against Magesi following shortly after the Sekhukhune encounter. 

This has forced Dladla and his coaching staff to plan for both matches carefully, balancing intensity with recovery and squad rotation.

“Having said that, a point would not be a bad thing overall because we’re playing two games up there and with a target of a minimum of four points,” Dladla explained. 

The approach reflects both ambition and pragmatism, as AmaZulu aim to return from the province with maximum possible points without overexerting the squad.

The team’s preparation has focused on defensive solidity, quick transitions, and exploiting the tactical nuances observed from Sekhukhune’s previous fixtures. 

Dladla believes that detailed analysis, coupled with his squad’s experience and hunger, gives AmaZulu a clear path to success.

With both matches taking place away from their home ground, the KwaZulu-Natal side must manage travel, recovery, and squad morale carefully. 

Dladla and his technical team’s task is to ensure players are mentally sharp and physically ready, especially in the wake of Sekhukhune’s own urgent need for a positive result to maintain their early-season momentum.

If AmaZulu can execute their plan efficiently, Dladla is confident they can exploit their opponents’ vulnerabilities and make the trip to Limpopo count.

 For Usuthu, this double-header represents not only a chance to gather points but also to build momentum for the season ahead.