Durban City Keeper Plots Coaching Move After Nedbank Cup Glory

Legendary goalkeeper Darren Keet is backing Durban City to conquer Africa in his absence after announcing his retirement from professional football.

The veteran shot-stopper called time on his illustrious playing career immediately after leading the club to a historic 2-1 Nedbank Cup victory over TS Galaxy at Peter Mokaba Stadium last Saturday.

The dramatic cup victory at Peter Mokaba Stadium officially books City’s first-ever ticket to represent South Africa in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.

Despite hanging up his gloves, the 36-year-old insists the squad boasts the pedigree to shine on the continent.

“They will [play without me],” Keet insisted. 

“They’ve got good young goalkeepers here. They’ve got a job to do, and I’m very confident, the club is confident, and I’m sure the coach is confident that they will be able to do the job.”

Who Will Replace Darren Keet in Goal for Durban City?

Keet, who arrived from Cape Town City at the start of the season, watched from the sidelines during Tuesday’s 2-2 league draw against Siwelele at Dr. Molemela Stadium.

Coach Pitso Dladla gave Ghanaian goalkeeper Frederick Asare the start in Bloemfontein.

The clash gave fans a glimpse into the post-Keet era, with the club’s promising reserve keepers already vying for the vacant number-one jersey ahead of the grueling African safari.

His departure leaves big shoes to fill, but the former Bafana Bafana international believes the timing is perfect.

What is Darren Keet’s Next Move in Football?

Rather than walking away from the game entirely, Keet plans to immediately transition into a technical role on the sidelines.

“I want to get my coaching career started,” said Keet.

“There’s no better time than now to do it. I’m not going to wait for my career to fizzle out, then call it a day. I have to start while on top.”

Having secured Durban City’s status as Nedbank Cup champions, Keet’s legacy in local football is firmly cemented as he prepares to mold the next generation of South African coaching talent.