Arthur Zwane pinpoints costly errors in AmaZulu’s MTN8 exit

AmaZulu FC coach Arthur Zwane has attributed his team’s 3-2 MTN8 quarterfinal defeat to Stellenbosch FC on Sunday afternoon at DHL Stadium in Cape Town to several critical factors, including losing possession cheaply.

The defeat saw AmaZulu knocked out of the competition, joining Polokwane City FC, Richards Bay FC, and TS Galaxy as early exits this weekend.

Zwane acknowledged the challenge posed by Stellenbosch but felt his team initially executed their game plan effectively. “We always knew that it wasn’t going to be an easy one playing against a well-oiled Stellenbosch team,” said Zwane. “But we had to allow them to have the ball in areas where we knew they would not hurt us. I think we did tremendously well. At some point, you could see their frustration.”

However, a recurring issue undermined their efforts. “The problem we had was that whenever we had turnovers, we actually lost the ball cheaply,” he explained. “The goal that they scored comes from those moments I just mentioned. I still believe that we showed them respect at some point, but whenever we imposed ourselves, we also put them under pressure.”

Barker Commends Stellenbosch’s Resilience Despite Pitch Woes

Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC coach Steve Barker expressed some dissatisfaction with the DHL Stadium pitch conditions, despite his side securing the win. Barker emphasised the need for adaptability on the path to championship glory.

“Like you saw the players cramping, it was the first game of the season, playing 120 minutes,” Barker noted. “But it was a tough game, and I think the pitch was a little bit difficult. The ball sort of bounced a lot. It wasn’t really conducive to how we want to play.”

Despite the challenges, Barker highlighted his team’s determination. “But be as it may, if you ever want to win trophies and be in the semi-finals. Sometimes, you just have to find a way to win a game, and I think today we found a way.”

The semi-final draw of the #MTN8 is complete 🔒 pic.twitter.com/VbH6OE2Cl0

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) August 3, 2025