Sekhukhune United target strong second half after break and title charge restart

Sekhukhune United are gearing up for what promises to be the most demanding and potentially defining phase of their season as they return to league action against Stellenbosch FC at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Tuesday evening, with kickoff at 7.30pm.

Babina Noko have been one of the standout stories of the campaign, with their strong early-season form placing them firmly among the league’s frontrunners. Currently third on the table and just three points behind leaders Orlando Pirates — who hold a game in hand — Eric Tinkler’s side remain well within reach of the title race.

With a high-profile clash against Pirates looming this Saturday, Sekhukhune still control much of their own destiny. However, their immediate focus is on Stellenbosch, who will be energised under new coach Gavin Hunt.

The Cape Winelands side will be looking to make a statement in their first game under Hunt.

Sekhukhune have found Stellenbosch a tricky opponent this season. In their two MTN8 meetings, they failed to register a win, including a 2-0 defeat in one of the encounters.

After a somewhat inconsistent run leading up to the international break, Tinkler’s men will be keen to restart the campaign on a high, regain momentum, and maintain their push for the title.

Babina Noko will also take a confidence boost from their 1-0 win over neighbours Magesi FC in their last league outing. However, they remain aware of the threat posed by the Maroons, who are still fighting to climb out of the relegation zone.

Midfielder Vusimuzi Ncube said the squad has used the break to regroup and is fully aware of the challenge ahead. He emphasized that the team will approach every game with the same mindset, regardless of the opposition.

“Preparations have gone well,” Ncube said, ahead of the match. 

“We haven’t had the best results against Stellies this season, but we treat every game the same. We don’t look at teams differently — whether it’s Sundowns or Stellenbosch — our focus is always on reaching our goals.”

While Sekhukhune’s league position is encouraging, consistency has been an issue at times. Ncube added that the break allowed the team to work on their weaknesses from the first half of the season.

“The break gave us time to address areas where we were struggling,” he continued. “We’ve put in the work, and we’re confident we’ll return as a stronger and more consistent team.”

Having regularly challenged near the top of the table in recent seasons, Ncube believes it is time for Sekhukhune to fully embrace their status as one of the league’s leading sides.

“It’s time we, as players, see ourselves as one of the big teams in the country. Expectations are high, and we want to make the second half of the season a strong one.”

The club has also strengthened its squad following Miguel Timm’s departure, bringing in Lebogang Phiri, Bradley Mojela, and Amede Diomande. Ncube is confident the new signings will add quality and depth to the squad, helping Sekhukhune aim even higher in the title race.

“They are quality players and important additions, and they will help us push for bigger achievements as the season progresses.”