“Our Own Path”: Pupuma Won’t Copy Durban City’s PSL Blueprint

Milford coach Xanti Pupuma says Durban City’s outstanding debut Betway Premiership campaign has provided inspiration for newly promoted clubs, but insists his side is focused on carving out its own identity and establishing itself in the top flight for years to come.

Milford secured promotion to the Betway Premiership after winning the promotion/relegation playoffs, overcoming Magesi FC and Cape Town City to book their place in South Africa’s top division.

The encouraging performances of recently promoted clubs have given hope to newcomers. Durban City enjoyed a dream maiden PSL season by winning the Nedbank Cup and finishing in the top eight, while Magesi announced themselves on the national stage by lifting the 2024 Carling Knockout Cup after defeating African champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the final.

While Pupuma admitted those achievements are motivating, he stressed that Milford’s primary objective is to build a sustainable club rather than chase immediate success.

“It does give us a little bit of motivation, but we also have to focus on ourselves because I don’t know what structure they are using or what their long-term plan and vision are,” said Pupuma.

“We have our own structure and our own dream, and now we are bringing that dream to life. We are where we always wanted to be, or at least where we have been working towards. It starts with putting the right structures in place off the field, making the club as professional as possible and creating an environment where the players can perform at their best.

“The sooner we have everything running smoothly, which I believe we are very close to achieving, the better our performances on the field will be.”

Pupuma emphasised that Milford are not placing unnecessary pressure on themselves to replicate the achievements of other newly promoted clubs.

“Honestly, I want us to create our own Milford path. It doesn’t have to be a top-eight finish, and we don’t have to win a cup in our first season. Our aim is to spend as much time as possible in the PSL—if not forever.”

Milford face a daunting start to life in the Betway Premiership, with their opening fixture of the 2026/27 season coming against defending champions Orlando Pirates on 1 August.

The clash will officially open the new league campaign and provide Pupuma’s side with an early opportunity to measure themselves against one of the country’s strongest teams as they begin their journey in the top flight.