City Faces Nedbank Cup Quarters Against Gallants Without Key Striker

Durban City coach Simo Dladla has acknowledged that the absence of striker Senzo Ndlovu will be a significant setback when they face Marumo Gallants in the Nedbank Cup quarter-final match at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday (15:00).

Ndlovu, known as ‘Mbhobho’ and on loan from AmaZulu, missed training sessions during the week due to discomfort.

The 28-year-old scored the decisive goal in City’s 2-1 victory over TS Galaxy at the same venue in Durban last month, during extra time of the Ke Yona Cup’s round of 16.

“I’m worried, and that is my only concern,” said Dladla. “Otherwise, everyone is in top form.”

Dladla continued, “It is a massive blow because in these types of games, you need exceptional players, and he is a truly special player who I believe would have significantly influenced our results moving forward. So, his absence is a worry for us.”

The Nedbank Cup could potentially be a distraction for City, who currently lead the Motsepe Foundation Championship with 40 points after 20 matches, six points ahead of second-placed Orbit College, as they strive for promotion at the end of the season. At home, City has proven difficult to defeat, suffering only one loss to the University of Pretoria, compared to three away losses.

Dladla is relying on home ground advantage to overcome the Gallants side, which has recently changed coaches. “Our home record is influenced by the fans,” he said, noting that fans have been filling the stadium, with attendances exceeding 3,000 for home matches, a commendable turnout for the relatively new club in Durban.

“All the small successes we’ve achieved are based on the fact that we are supported. We feel we owe it to our supporters, who come in large numbers to support the team and watch us. So, we need them to come on Sunday, and when they are here, we have a responsibility not to disappoint.”