This was the view of AmaZulu FC Head Coach Pablo Franco, as he brimmed with pride and admiration for his team, during his post-match interview at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium following a captivating display against 4th placed Supersport United in a thrilling 1-1 draw in the DStv Premiership on Friday night.
Reflecting on the match, Franco commended his team’s unwavering commitment and competitive spirit throughout the game. “I think we played a very good match from the beginning till the end. I think we were very competitive against one of the best teams in this competition, a team that is mastering what they do. Very simple but effective, direct play many crosses, overloading the box. We defended very well in those situations, but we suffered in some moments of the game.”
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the opposing team’s direct style of play and relentless attacking strategies, Franco praised his squad’s defensive resilience. “We defended very well those situations we suffered in some moments of the game,” he stated, emphasizing the team’s ability to withstand pressure and maintain composure.
Despite facing setbacks, including conceding a late equalizer for the second consecutive game, Franco expressed admiration for his team’s fighting spirit and never-say-die attitude. “The attitude, the commitment, the fighting spirit, the organization of the team and the capacity to believe till the end… it’s a pity because again we are feeling that we could have gotten a better result which was really deserved because of the effort of the guys,” he lamented.
Franco also highlighted the unexpected substitution of Junior Dion due to illness right before kickoff which gave an opportunity to Victor Letsoalo, who seized chance and made a significant impact by scoring a crucial goal.
“He played an amazing game but it’s not only about Victor Letsoalo. Veli Mothwa was coming back as well, George Maluleka played in the second half. Augustine Mulenga and Thembela Sikhakhane is the first time starting a game today. All these names and I think deserve us to pay attention to them and their performances because this is what is needed this competition, we are also missing many key players and despite of that fact we are competing very well and that’s good news,” Franco emphasized, crediting the collective effort from the team.
The coach expressed optimism about the team’s progress and resilience, despite the challenging circumstances. “I think the job and process is there despite the result and this uncomfortable situation in the last minutes of the game,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of remaining positive and focused on the team’s ongoing development.
With the hard-fought draw, AmaZulu FC maintains their 10th position in the DStv Premiership standings, with 24 points.
Usuthu have yet another date at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium as they cast their sight on Sekhukhune United in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 on Thursday night.
