Arthur Zwane’s extensive 24-year tenure at Kaizer Chiefs in various capacities is not anticipated to provide AmaZulu with any edge at FNB Stadium this Tuesday (19:30).
This perspective was shared by Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley, who has been in exceptional form this season since moving from Cape Town Spurs during the off-season.
Zwane transitioned from managing the academy at Chiefs to his current role as co-coach at AmaZulu alongside Vusi Vilakazi starting in October.
During his distinguished decade at Chiefs from 2000 to 2010, he made 252 appearances, scored 32 goals, and secured an impressive 12 trophies with the team.
He also led the Chiefs to the CAF Champions League final in 2021, making history as the first South African team to achieve victory in Morocco by defeating Wydad Casablanca in the semifinals en route to the final.
For these achievements, he has earned the title of club legend.
Nonetheless, Dortley rejects the idea that ‘10111’ possesses any hidden insights that could be advantageous to AmaZulu.
“We have prepared extensively for this match and established a strong game plan,” he states, while adding, “Since Arthur Zwane’s departure, things have shifted here with new coaches in place. Therefore, I don’t think he has any unique understanding of the current team dynamics.”
This upcoming match is the first encounter of the second round in the Betway Premiership, with Chiefs eager to enhance their standings in pursuit of a strong finish and the rewards that come with it.
“Our objective is to win every game and collect maximum points to rise up the table,” Dortley emphasizes. “While we still have a theoretical chance of contesting for the league title, our focus is on at least securing a top-three finish to qualify for next season’s CAF competitions. We are excited to represent the club on the continental stage once more.”
Chiefs head into this match following a defeat to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby, which drew a packed crowd at FNB Stadium last Saturday.
The match was emotionally taxing for everyone connected to the club, especially after a last-minute loss due to a controversial penalty scored by Patrick Maswanganyi.
With limited time for recovery between games, the players’ fitness and endurance will be tested, yet Dortley expresses confidence in the coaching staff’s ability to prepare them for the upcoming clash.
“Our conditioning coach is exceptional. He knows exactly what he’s doing. We’ve adhered to his recovery methods and are ready to give our all on Tuesday,” he shares.
Dortley, who has signed a contract valid until 2027 and has joined the Bafana Bafana setup, has played 16 matches across all competitions for Chiefs so far. He has yet to score for Amakhosi, and when asked about this, he smiles, “Hopefully on Tuesday.”
