Sekhukhune United desperate to end year on a high despite recent setbacks

Sekhukhune United have an opportunity to end the year on a high note after a recent dip in results dented their pursuit of a top-three finish. The Limpopo-based side currently sit fourth on the Betway Premiership table and, despite being winless in their last four matches, still have time to turn their fortunes around in the final two fixtures of 2025.

Coach Eric Tinkler and his charges have endured a frustrating run of stop-start fixtures, with several games disrupted by Fifa breaks and scheduling overlaps involving opponents competing in continental tournaments.

Despite this, Tinkler insists his team’s performances have been solid, even if the results have not reflected that. Their latest outing, a 1-1 draw against Richards Bay FC, was another setback, yet Sekhukhune remain just four points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, with a game in hand.

The 55-year-old mentor has assembled a well-balanced squad capable of mounting a serious challenge throughout the campaign. However, team selection in defence and midfield has presented tricky decisions given the depth at his disposal. Tinkler explained how he has managed rotations in recent matches:

“Medupi (Thokolo) and Bright (Ndlovu) have been a really good centre-back pairing. Tresor (Yamba) just came back, and we must not forget that last season he was one of the key players,” Tinkler said.

“When you have options like this, you have to make difficult decisions and give everyone a chance. Daniel (Cardoso) is still with us, and he’ll get his opportunity. Thabang (Monare) picked up an injury in the match against Siwelele FC, which is why Miguel (Timm) played against Richards Bay.”

Sekhukhune’s next challenge comes away from home against Marumo Gallants at the Dr. Petrus Molemela Stadium. With the Africa Cup of Nations just over a month away, they will then face Magesi FC before the league pauses for the continental showpiece.

Securing wins in these two away fixtures will be crucial to keeping their title ambitions alive, particularly with a lengthy break looming before domestic football resumes towards the end of January.

Looking ahead, Tinkler outlined areas where his side can improve to return stronger after the break.

“We were reactive in some of our combination play in the final third, especially against Richards Bay. Our first half was really good, but some players weren’t quite expecting it,” he said.

“Continuity and consistency are important, and the players need a better understanding of each other and their qualities. Our crossing also has to improve. We had so many opportunities down the right-hand side in that last match, but couldn’t produce a single decent ball. It’s frustrating because when you’re under pressure, a poor cross is understandable, but when you’re not, it’s disappointing.”

Tinkler also provided an update on captain and midfielder Linda Mtambo, who has been sidelined with injury in recent weeks.

“Linda has started training with us again. We’ve been away for a few days, and he began training about two weeks ago. He’s no longer just doing rehab; he’s back with the first team and should be fully ready within the next week.”

With two crucial fixtures remaining before the league pause, Tinkler will be hoping that fitness, focus and a sharper final third can help Sekhukhune United end 2025 on a positive note and remain in the hunt for the Premiership’s upper echelons.