AmaZulu FC Head Coach, Pablo Franco has praised his team after booking their place in the Nedbank Cup Quarter Finals as they beat Sekhukhune United 2-0 on Friday night at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Speaking in his post-match interview with journalists, the elated Spanish mentor expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and highlighted the importance of the win, especially considering last season’s exit from the tournament.
“Last season, AmaZulu were knocked out in the last 16 of this competition against a second division team,” Franco recalled.
“Today, we faced one of the best teams currently in the PSL, and not only did we emerge victorious, but we also kept a clean sheet and scored two goals.”
Despite the convincing win, Franco acknowledged that there were missed opportunities to extend their lead even further. “It should have been four or five because we had many clear chances, and they also had chances,” he admitted.
“However, our defensive display was exceptional, and when we couldn’t defend, Veli Mothwa, our man of the match, came through with some crucial saves.”
Franco went on to extend his congratulations not only to the players on the pitch but also to the entire AmaZulu family, including the extended squad and staff members who contributed to the team’s success. He emphasized the importance of the supportive atmosphere created by the AmaZulu faithful who traveled to Polokwane to cheer on the team.
“We are really happy with the performance of the team, and we need to keep going,” Franco added.
“You need to see things with perspective. Results are something that depend on many things. I’m seeing the improvement of this team; we are competing well, playing good football, and getting better and better throughout the season compared to the previous one.”
Usuthu will know their quarter final opponents on Monday, 18th March 2024 when the draw has been conducted at Supersport Studios.
