Usuthu set for crucial Derby battle amidst troubling run of form

AmaZulu will travel to the Mpumalanga Stadium in Hammarsdale on Saturday for a 3pm kick-off against Golden Arrows in what promises to be a season-defining KwaZulu-Natal derby. 

Both teams will be eyeing a top-eight finish that eluded them last season.

Usuthu currently sit seventh on the league table with 33 points from 26 matches, but their recent run of form paints a concerning picture. 

With four losses in their last five outings, their ability to finish the season on a strong note will be put to the test.

As they prepare to face their local rivals, this fixture carries more than just bragging rights. With only four points separating the two teams, the stakes are significantly high.

And in a campaign plagued by inconsistency, this derby becomes a potential turning point—or another potential stumbling block.

Usuthu coach Arthur Zwane believes his side has the perfect opportunity to get themselves out of the tricky situation they currently face.

“These games don’t come easy; for us, it’s more like a six-pointer. We know the importance of getting the maximum points. Zwane said ahead of the match.

“I wouldn’t want to repeat myself in terms of where we are and where we are supposed to be. We have had ample time to consolidate and put ourselves in a better position on the log.

“Dropping three games in a row has put us under pressure and we put ourselves in this situation, and like we did in the past, we will have to take ourselves out.

“The only opportunity we have is to make sure that we go to Hammarsdale, regardless of whether the pitch will be playable or not; the most important thing will be to go there and grind out the result.”

While their neighbors enjoy the cushion of three games in hand over eighth-placed Kaizer Chiefs—just two points ahead—Usuthu are running out of time. With only three matches left to salvage their season, the margin for error is razor-thin, and their final three outings have become must-win encounters.

Zwane added that his side is ready for the challenge despite a few disruptions to the balance of his squad, and they have their attention fully on getting a win that will get them closer to their top eight goal.

“The preparations are going well so far, and everyone is looking forward to the game. Zwane continued.

“We have a few injuries here and there but I don’t think they will have much of a negative impact.

“We have players that have always been waiting in the wings for the opportunity to be presented to them and they are equally good at grabbing the opportunity with both hands, so we are just hoping to get the maximum points, although it is not going to be an easy one.

“We have played more games than anyone else and that is why it's key for us to ensure we get maximum points in all the remaining games to ensure that we at least secure a top eight spot.”