Kopo Targets Nedbank Cup Revival For AmaTuks
University of Pretoria head coach Kwanele Kopo says he is determined to revive the club’s proud tradition of producing top players while guiding AmaTuks to a strong run in the Nedbank Cup.
Kopo, who was appointed during the off-season, will be in charge when University of Pretoria face Hungry Lions in the Nedbank Cup round of 32 at Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium on Sunday (15:00).
AmaTuks failed to reach the round of 32 last season, a surprising outcome given their pedigree in the competition. The Pretoria-based club reached the Nedbank Cup final in 2009, where they lost to Moroka Swallows at Rand Stadium under then-coach Steve Barker.
Following that period, the club sold several standout players, including Andile Jali and Phenyo Mongalo to Orlando Pirates, Mthokozisi Yende to Kaizer Chiefs, and Warren Bishop to AmaZulu. Bongani Zungu later followed when he joined Mamelodi Sundowns.
Since then, AmaTuks have struggled to consistently produce players of similar calibre and to replicate their earlier success in the Nedbank Cup.
“I think we are privileged as AmaTuks to have that history, and it is something we have spoken about,” said Kopo.
“Not just about the tournament, but about the growth of the players. Obviously, this is a different phase for the club — we are in transition. This is year one of our transition programme.
“There are certain things we are looking to change at the club, and that is already evident in our league performances.
“From a mentality, desire and incentive perspective, we have to draw from our history — the Andile Jalis, the Yendes, the Zungus.
“Hopefully, these players can emulate that generation and even go further by winning the tournament. Everybody knows the Nedbank Cup offers no guarantees.
“The teams that are up to the task are always motivated, and we have already seen that Motsepe Foundation Championship teams are not pushovers.
“So, in this fixture, one thing is guaranteed — there will be a Motsepe Foundation Championship team in the round of 16.
“The challenge for us is to ensure that the history and prestige of AmaTuks are reflected in a performance that allows us to progress to the next round.”
