Sekhukhune United have set their sights on winning the Carling Knockout after booking their place in the last eight. Coach Papi Zothwane declared the trophy an achievable goal following a 3-1 victory over Richards Bay at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday, a result that mirrors their league win against the same opponents on 25 October.
The win, which extends the club's winning run to three matches across all competitions, was sealed with goals from Chibuike Ohizu, Thabang Makubo and Bethel Muzeu. Ohizu broke the deadlock just seven minutes into the second half, latching onto a long ball from Nyiko Mobbie before finishing past the goalkeeper. Makubo added a second in the 83rd minute with a solo effort, and Muzeu headed home a late third after Nqaba Xulu had pulled one back for Richards Bay. The goals on Sunday followed a similar pattern to their recent league form, which includes a 2-1 win over Marumo Gallants on 17 October.
Zothwane is adamant they can win the tournament. The coach pointed to the team's collective ambition as the driving force behind their cup run. "This is a target that we’ve set as a group and it’s possible," Zothwane said. "It’s achievable." The Carling Knockout requires just three victories to reach the final, a path Sekhukhune are now one step along. He emphasised the importance of the team's current momentum and confidence.
The team's form provides a solid foundation for this belief. They sit sixth in the Premier Soccer League with 14 points from eight games, a record of four wins, two draws and two losses. They have scored nine goals this season while conceding eight. This cup momentum arrives at a good time, with a challenging away league fixture against fourth-placed Milford FC next on the schedule on Sunday 1 November. The team is currently nine points behind the league leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns, but their recent form of three wins and no draws from their last three league games shows they are building consistency. Their top scorer this season is E. Rammala with two goals in seven appearances. Zothwane noted the need to balance cup aspirations with consistent league performance.
Zothwane highlighted the immediate impact of defender Samba O'Neil, who joined from Asante Kotoko three months ago. The 26-year-old Niger international has featured in four games, bringing defensive structure and leadership. Zothwane described him as a mature, quality player comfortable with both feet, the kind of addition any team would want. He added that O'Neil's experience has been key in organising the backline.
Looking ahead, Sekhukhune United will now await the draw for the Carling Knockout semi-finals. Zothwane stated the team will prepare for any opponent, focusing on their own strengths and game plan. Their next competitive action comes against Milford FC on November 1, a match the coach views as another opportunity to build on their positive run.
The original report is at sowetan.co.za
