Mthethwa rallies AmaZulu as Chiefs clash offers chance to end away woes

AmaZulu defender Sandile Mthethwa believes Usuthu will head into their clash with Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Wednesday better prepared after learning harsh lessons from their most recent setback.

Usuthu suffered a disappointing defeat to TS Galaxy last time out, a result that left them sitting ninth on the Betway Premiership table. Their away form has been a particular concern, with two draws and three defeats in five matches across all competitions this season.

For Mthethwa, however, the trip to Soweto represents more than another away assignment. It is a chance for the KwaZulu Natal side to prove their resilience against one of the giants of South African football.

“The last game, as much as we lost, but it was a learning curve ahead of the game against Kaizer Chiefs,” said the former Orlando Pirates man.

“We are hoping that ahead of the Chiefs we would’ve learnt a lot. From training you can tell the guys are ready to fix the mistakes we made.

"Our objective is to win our first game away and it’s very important going to FNB. As much as it won’t be easy, the club has done it before so why not?”

Chiefs, currently in fifth place, also approach the encounter with a point to prove. They started the season brightly, unbeaten in their opening run, but that momentum was checked by a defeat to Sekhukhune United — their first of the campaign. 

The setback has left Amakhosi eager to deliver a response in front of their home supporters. Mthethwa, though, is convinced AmaZulu’s preparations have been sharper following the loss to Galaxy. 

The defender emphasised that training sessions have been focused on tightening up at the back while also ensuring the team takes their opportunities when they come. Chiefs will lean on their attacking depth, with Flavio da Silva, Ashley du Preez and new arrival Khanyisa Mayo all pushing for goals. 

Young forward Wandile Duba admitted this week that competition has intensified in the Amakhosi frontline, underlining the pressure strikers face at the club. That makes Mthethwa’s role at the heart of Usuthu’s defence even more crucial.

For AmaZulu, Wednesday is about rewriting the script of their season so far. 

A first away win would not only snap their poor run on the road but also serve as a major confidence boost against one of the league’s most decorated teams.

Mthethwa insists the belief remains strong inside the Usuthu camp. Chiefs may be favourites on paper, but AmaZulu are determined to turn lessons into points.