Sekhukhune United FC has officially appointed Joseph Mhlongo as head coach and Themba Masango as assistant coach. The club confirmed the changes in a statement this week, welcoming both men and wishing them success in their new roles as the team sits 6th in the Premier Soccer League on 14 points from eight games, with a record of four wins, two draws and two losses.

Mhlongo, 36, retired from playing in 2025 after a career that began in 2013 with Roses United. He played for Polokwane City, Upington City, Ubuntu Cape Town, Leruma United and Black Leopards in South Africa's top flight. His coaching journey started at Mabopane JM before a stint at Tembisa Hollywood Thunder, a Gauteng ABC Motsepe League side owned by Orlando Pirates legend Jerry Sikhosana.

Masango brings coaching experience from Kruger United, African All Stars, and Sekhukhune United. The club statement noted that "Coach Masango brings coaching experience from various clubs, including Kruger United, African All Stars, and Sekhukhune United, among others." Both coaches have signed contracts that run until the end of the 2026/27 season.

Why this matters now

They are on a two-game winning run, having beaten Marumo Gallants 2-1 last Saturday and Richards Bay 3-2 in September. The club is nine points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns but has momentum with a recent form of two wins and a draw from its last three matches. The team's overall goal difference stands at plus one, having scored nine and conceded eight this season. Their recent results include a 2-1 victory over Marumo Gallants on Saturday 17 October, a 3-2 win at Richards Bay on 19 September, and a 1-1 draw at Stellenbosch on 11 September.

Club president Simon Malatji stated the appointments are part of a long-term vision. Malatji said in the club's announcement.

Next up is a trip to face fourth-placed Milford FC on 1 November in the next fixture. The club's top scorer this season is E. Rammala with two goals in seven appearances, according to the club's stats page.

In a separate development, Army Rocket FC, a North West ABC Motsepe League side, has appointed Masango as head coach and Mhlongo as his assistant. Both coaches now take on their roles with immediate effect as Sekhukhune United prepares for its away fixture in eight days.

The original report is at soccerladuma.co.za