“Ready For Anything” — Durban City Captain Braced For “Giant Killers”

As Durban City stand on the verge of making history in the Nedbank Cup, captain Sphamandla Ncanana says there is no greater motivation for the team.

City will host giant-killers Casric Stars in the semi-final at Chatsworth Stadium on Saturday, with a place in the final at stake.

If they overcome the tricky challenge of Casric, City will face the winner between TS Galaxy and Milford FC in the final. The two sides will meet in the other semi-final at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Sunday.

“We are motivated,” said Ncanana.

However, they come up against a resilient Casric Stars side that has won all their matches away in the competition, including eliminating two PSL teams—Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC.

In all of those matches, Stars were taken to extra time, yet still emerged victorious to reach the semi-finals.

They will, however, face a Durban City side with an unblemished home record at Chatsworth Stadium this season.

“Our preparations are going very well. The players are motivated, and the coaches are pushing us hard in training, as you all know,” Ncanana said.

“So, we are ready for anything.”

In his role as captain, Ncanana has grown significantly, showing composure and excellent timing in high-pressure battles against dangerous opponents.

Though small in stature, he leads with authority at the back, putting his body on the line when it matters most. He is also a player who looks completely at home in the side.

Durban City have enjoyed a strong campaign, punching above their weight and currently sitting fifth on the log with 35 points from 22 matches.

“All I can say is that I’m surrounded by experienced players who are good at helping others grow,” Ncanana added.

“I’m a young captain in terms of age, and there are players older than me. They guide me and show me how to lead.

“It has also helped change my mindset—although I’m young, it pushes me to think like someone more experienced.”