Sport

AmaZulu FC and Durban City FC set to ignite a new rivalry in KwaZulu-Natal

BETWAY PREMIERSHIP

Smiso Msomi|Published

DURBAN City coach Gavin Hunt having a chat with his AmaZulu counterpart Arthur Zwane ahead of their much anticipated Betway Premiership encounter on Saturday. | BackpagePix

Image: BackpagePix

KwaZulu-Natal football fans are in for a spectacle this weekend as AmaZulu FC and Durban City FC face off for the first time in a Betway Premiership clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday 3.30pm. 

The showdown marks the birth of a fresh provincial rivalry — one that could grow into one of the fiercest fixtures on the local football calendar. 

Both sides enter the contest with different ambitions but the same hunger to assert dominance in KZN's growing football landscape.

AmaZulu, currently ninth on the log with 12 points from eight matches, have endured an uneven start under new head coach Arthur Zwane. 

Usuthu have managed three wins, three draws, and two defeats, but what stands out is their perfect home record in the league  — three wins from three at the Princess Magogo Stadium. 

Zwane’s men will hope to move that ‘fortress’ form to kick-start their campaign after a frustrating spell before the international break.

Their last outing ended in disappointment, a Carling Knockout Cup exit at the hands of Magesi FC, which exposed their inconsistency in front of goal. 

Prior to that, AmaZulu had shown promise in a 1–1 draw against Kaizer Chiefs, displaying strong defensive structure but lacking the killer instinct in attack.

Zwane, still early in his tenure, has emphasized patience and discipline as he looks to build a team that can challenge for a top-six finish. 

Across town, Durban City arrive full of confidence and momentum. The Betway Premiership newcomers, coached by Gavin Hunt, have been one of the surprise packages of the season, currently fourth on the table with 15 points. 

Their record of four wins, three draws, and two losses underlines a side that is adapting quickly to top-flight intensity.

City’s last league outing — a 3–1 win over Magesi FC — was a statement performance that showcased their attacking depth and sharp tactical balance. 

Hunt’s influence has been clear, with the team combining solid organisation with fast, incisive counter-attacks.

This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between AmaZulu and Durban City, giving Saturday’s fixture extra historical weight. 

With both teams separated by just three points, the clash promises high stakes and plenty of emotion.

For Durban City, a win could further cement their status as genuine contenders in their debut season. 

For AmaZulu, it’s a chance to remind the province who holds traditional bragging rights and to reignite their campaign under Zwane.

Beyond the numbers, it’s a story of new beginnings — a rivalry in the making, fuelled by ambition, pride, and provincial pride. 

Expect tension, flair, and a full Moses Mabhida crowd as KZN’s newest football feud takes flight.