MaZulu FC’s forward, Thapelo Matlhoko, has no doubt that they still have a chance to secure a place in the Caf Confederation Cup by finishing in third place in the Betway Premiership log at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The Zulus, who are in fourth place in the Premiership log, are fighting against teams who are still fighting to finish in third place, which is the gateway to play in the Caf Confed.
The team that will finish in third place on the log this season will join Durban City in the Caf Confed, who have already secured a place in the African continent by winning the Nedbank Cup title at the weekend.
Kaizer Chiefs are still in third place with 47 points, followed by MaZulu with 42, and Sekhukhune United in fifth with 39.
AmaZulu will play against Lamontville Golden Arrows in the home Premiership of Durban tomorrow at 7.30pm, at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban.
This game is similar to that of a grudge since in three games the Zulus have won when these teams have faced each other better than the home team. These games include the first round of the season where the Zulu defeated the Arrows 1-0 on December 2 at King Zwelithini Stadium, Mlaza.
“It is a big game for the home team, which we are determined to win even though we know that it will not be easy to face the Arrows,” said Matlhoko.
Usuthu comes to this game full of confidence as in the last Premiership game they played a 5-1 defeat against Chippa United.
“I believe we can still finish in third place. We are playing well and we are determined. Even Kaizer Chiefs will be shocked because they will find us ready and waiting,” said Matlhoko with confidence.
Matlhoko (23) who hails from Munsieville, Krugersdorp, joined Usuthu before the start of this season from Kruger United playing in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where he made appearances and turned into meat in different Premiership teams.
Although he faced difficulties in getting a jersey under coach Arthur Zwane, he still grabbed both the opportunities he was given. In the eight games he has played, he has scored three goals and assisted in one.
“Everything happens for a reason. Of course it wasn’t easy to sit still but I knew my chance was coming.
I take what happened to me this season as a lesson, especially since it is my first season playing in the Premiership.
I believe that next season I will do my best to help my team,” said Matlhoko.
After Arrows, Usuthu will host Chiefs at Moses Mabhida Stadium on May 16.