Latest news with #AmaZulu
IOL News
5 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
'Teko Modise sent shivers down our spines,' says Zungu as AmaZulu announce youthful strategy alongside new signings
Sandile Zungu, president of AmaZulu, Arthur Zwane, head coach and his coaching team with the new players and management during the Betway Premiership Fan Experience in Durban. | BackpagePix A blunt critique from Teko Modise has triggered a major shift at AmaZulu, with the club unveiling a youthful strategy and fresh signings ahead of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. During the official launch held in Durban on Tuesday, club president Sandile Zungu admitted that Modise's searing analysis of Usuthu's struggles last season was a turning point. The former Bafana Bafana midfielder labelled AmaZulu a 'retirement home' and criticised their continued pursuit of players well past their peak. The two-time Footballer of the Year, speaking as a football analyst, accused AmaZulu of becoming a destination for fading talent instead of focusing on building a competitive, youthful team that can grow together. 'We took what he said to heart,' Zungu said. 'He said we had become a dumping ground for players who have failed in their careers and we took that to heart, we were not angry but we thought maybe he has a point.'
IOL News
a day ago
- Sport
- IOL News
AmaZulu's pre-season shake-up raises questions ahead of MTN8
AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane and assistant Siboniso Vilakazi have a tough task to keep the club competitive during the opening rounds of the upcoming season. Photo: BackpagePix Image: Bacpagepix AmaZulu's technical team are grappling with growing concerns over a lack of squad depth and experience as they prepare for a testing MTN8 quarter-final showdown against Stellenbosch FC on Sunday. Having finished sixth last season, Usuthu earned a place in the lucrative Top 8 competition — but as the 2025/26 campaign kicks off, head coach Arthur Zwane is still piecing together a squad capable of challenging on all fronts, including the push for CAF qualification. The Durban-based side released a staggering 17 players at the end of last season, triggering a major squad overhaul that has left gaps across key positions. Long-serving figures such as Veli Mothwa, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Mbongeni Gumede, and Rowan Human were among those shown the exit door. With just days to go before their clash against Stellies, only a handful of new faces have been seen in AmaZulu colours, including defender Keagan Allen, goalkeeper Darren Johnson, and striker Ryan Moon — all of whom featured during the KZN Premier's Cup this past weekend. However, more arrivals are expected before the close of the transfer window. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Assistant coach Siboniso Vilakazi admitted that the team is still far from settled and that the loss of experience has been deeply felt during pre-season. 'When you look at the second team against Durban City, it tells you that we don't have depth because it was a completely new team,' said Vilakazi, after their semi-final exit in the KZN Premier's Cup. 'We have players that we are trying to reinforce with who have experience at the highest level and some who are coming back from loans and those from our youth systems.' Vilakazi was encouraged by the performances of some of the younger players but warned that youth alone won't be enough to carry the team through a demanding season. 'So, we are not starting from scratch,' he added. 'But after this tournament, even though we are happy with the performance of the youngsters, we know the depth is not there as yet.' Usuthu's situation is made more urgent by the timing of the MTN8. The clash against a settled and well-drilled Stellenbosch side, who themselves are eyeing silverware this season, will offer a stern test of just how ready Zwane's side really is. The club's recruitment strategy is expected to remain aggressive over the coming weeks, with emphasis on bringing in players who offer leadership and experience, particularly in defence and midfield. For now, Zwane and his staff are walking a tightrope — balancing long-term rebuilding with the short-term pressure of performing in a knockout competition. And as the countdown to Sunday begins, AmaZulu's depth and cohesion will face their first real examination.
The South African
2 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs transfer news: Sundowns player and goalkeeper
Kaizer Chiefs followers have been desperate for clarity. Etiosa Ighodaro, who recently played on loan at AmaZulu, had supposedly signed for Amakhosi. With the Betway Premiership starting in less than a month, the 24-year-old Nigerian has still not been seen in a Kaizer Chiefs tracksuit. What's actually happening? Didn't his deal with Mamelodi Sundowns run its course? Orlando Pirates news: Makgopa, Radiopane and Mofokeng Etiosa Ighodaro playing for AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership. Image: @amazulufc/X 'At the moment Kaizer Chiefs are waiting on Sundowns,' an insider said. 'Ighodaro has one year remaining on his contract with Sundowns and only if they can release him first as a free agent or if they can buy him from the remaining months on his contract… Full story here. Orlando Pirates transfer news: Bafana Bafana defender The name of Renaldo Leaner has become rather popular with Kaizer Chiefs supporters since the end of last season. The 27-year-old goalkeeper from Elsies River, Cape Town, caught Kaizer Chiefs' attention after superb performances for Sekhukhune United and Bafana Bafana. According to reports, Amakhosi, who are expected to part ways with Fiacre Ntwari, are interested in Leaner but have not made formal enquiries yet…Full story here. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Honouring the legacy of King Goodwill Zwelithini on his 77th birthday
His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu and Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu. Image: Supplied TODAY, the Zulu nation, alongside South Africans and the global African diaspora, gather to celebrate the 77th birth anniversary of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who reigned as one of Africa's longest-serving monarchs from 1968 until his passing in 2021. "This day is a poignant reminder of his lasting influence that continues to inspire cultural pride, national unity, and social cohesion across generations," said Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, a member of the AmaZulu Royal Household, andpresident of the Sivananda World Peace Foundation. Born on July 27, 1948, King Zwelithini ascended to the Zulu throne at the young age of 20, marking the beginning of a reign that would last for half a century. As a steward of the Zulu Kingdom, his leadership encompassed values of peace and development, while also heralding a cultural renaissance that empowered his people. This year's commemoration is held under the theme 'Living the Legacy of Inkosi Enkhulu', reflecting his commitment to promoting social cohesion and rural development. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading "The king was also instrumental in revitalising traditional customs, with the annual Umkhosi Womhlanga (Reed Dance) serving as a testament to his efforts in celebrating Zulu heritage. His role in enhancing traditional leadership within the context of modern democracy is remembered fondly as a transformative journey. And it is befitting to pay tribute to his majesty, who was the former patron of Sivananda World Peace Foundation," added Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu. "As we mark his majesty's birth anniversary, we honour a life defined by dignity, vision, and service. His leadership was transformative - empowering communities, protecting our identity, and fostering unity across all divides.' He said a series of tributes would be held, featuring cultural performances and community development initiatives, alongside reflections from school children. "Traditional leaders, civic organisations, and the royal family will unite to pay homage to a monarch whose legacy is characterised by selfless service and exemplary leadership." He said King Zwelithini's influence extended beyond cultural realms, leaving significant marks on land reform, agriculture, and public health, particularly in the battle against HIV/Aids. "His insightful advice was sought by political leaders across the spectrum, affirming his position as a stabilising force during South Africa's transition to democracy. "As participants reflected on his profound contributions, the remembrance of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu shone as a guiding light for the nation, promoting unity, dignity, and an inclusive approach to nation-building. Let us honour his memory by continuing to work towards a brighter future for all South Africans. May we strive to carry on his majesty's legacy of wisdom, compassion, and strength,' urged Ramlutchman. THE POST
The Citizen
3 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Fixture: AmaZulu FC vs Golden Arrows FC
Less than a minute Dave Savides Less than a minute AmaZulu won 3 – 2 and proceed to semi-final against winner of Match 2 at 12.30 on Sunday. The last fixture of the day is Milford VS Durban City at 2pm. Don't have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here: HAVE YOUR SAY Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. For news straight to your phone invite us: WhatsApp – 060 784 2695 Instagram – zululand_observer
