Badela To Count On Fan Support Ahead Of Polokwane Clash

Durban City coach Sinethemba Badela says he will rely on the club’s passionate supporters, whose influence has been crucial in the team suffering only a few home defeats, as he prepares for his first match in charge against Polokwane City at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday.

Badela was dismissed by Chippa United after just two matches earlier this season and has since been appointed as Durban City’s new head coach following the departure of Gavin Hunt.

Hunt left City in seventh place on the log, but the team has since slipped to eighth, with 22 points from 15 matches.

City have suffered only two home defeats this season, against Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. However, those matches were played at Moses Mabhida Stadium rather than Chatsworth Stadium.

Badela will be eager to maintain that strong home record for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

“Of course, you want to be strong at home,” said Badela.

“Once again, I have to give credit to the supporters. I was there as an opposition coach when Chippa lost 1-0 in the second game of the season, and it’s not easy. They never stop. They push the team, and eventually the opposition gives in.

“I’ve seen the team come back from 1-0 down against Magesi, and the supporters never stop singing or cheering for the players. They push the team right until the end, and that is what we need. We need the supporters to push us every single day.

“Of course, the players will be motivated for every game. Not every match will be easy, but knowing you have a 12th man behind you gives that extra push. All the top teams are very strong at home, and we have the ambition to be a top team.”