AmaZulu FC coach Pablo Franco Martin has made his intentions clear: victory is the only option against Richards Bay in Tuesday’s KwaZulu-Natal Derby at King Zwelithini Stadium (19:30).

This is because Richards Bay is desperately fighting relegation after a loss to Cape Town Spurs, but Martin emphasizes that AmaZulu won’t show mercy. Their own goal of a top-eight finish is on the line.

“We are here to favour ourselves, not to do favors for everyone else you know. I think the motivation is there without a coach saying anything,” affirmed the former Real Madrid coach.  

“Why? Because if you remember last season, AmaZulu played eight derby matches and it was four draws, four losses.”  

He highlighted AmaZulu’s improved performance compared to last season, where they failed to win any of their eight provincial derbies. “This season, we’ve won four out of six,” he said. “We drew two, and right now, we’re the best team in KwaZulu-Natal. It’s important for the club, the president, the fans, and everyone involved.”

Martin expressed his frustration over defender Abubbakar Mobara’s suspension, calling him a crucial part of the AmaZulu squad. “Mobara is one of our best, if not the best, in terms of skill and decision-making on the ball,” Martin said.

With the league season nearing its end and matches coming in quick succession, injuries and suspensions pose a significant challenge for a smaller club like AmaZulu. “We’re facing a lot of suspensions right now,” Martin lamented. “Recovering is difficult with so many games in a short period, and the players are fatigued.”

Currently sitting in 11th place on the DStv Premiership table with 31 points after 25 matches, AmaZulu will be looking to secure a victory against Bay to solidify their pursuit of a top-eight finish.