Royal AM will kick off their 2024/25 season with a challenging match as they host Erik Tinkler’s Cape Town City at Harry Gwala Stadium on Saturday.
The Pietermaritzburg-based team faced many challenges last season and survived the drop after finishing in 13th place, just three points above the relegation zone. John Maduka, coach of Royal AM, will be hoping for a positive start to the new campaign, despite being unable to sign new players due to the FIFA ban currently imposed on them.
Menzi Masuku and Shaune Mogaila, two prominent players, recently departed Royal AM, their exit has sparked discussions about the potential impact on the team’s performance and dynamics, especially in the final third.
Maduka understands the tough challenge of facing the Citizens but having the home ground advantage could motivate his team to deliver a strong performance on the opening day and aim for a positive result.
On the other hand, Cape Town City has been active in the transfer market and has significantly strengthened its squad, sending a message of intent to the rest of the league. French international Amadou Soukouna is said to be the replacement for Khanyiso Mayo who recently moved to Algerian outfit CR Belouizdad.
Former Sekhukhune United and Bafana Bafana international Kamohelo Mokotjo brings a wealth of experience with him and is a perfect midfield partner for Fortune Makaringe who himself still has plenty to offer. To add to this quality midfield is former Sundowns and Raja Club Athletic midfielder, Hashim Domingo, who brings creativity and flair which complements the attacking threat Tinkler has put together.
Tinkler and his men just missed out on a place in the CAF Confederations Cup after they finished in fifth place last season, only missing out by goal difference with Sekhukhune United securing the final spot. This time around, the 54-year-old will be hoping to improve on that position and will expect nothing less than maximum points from his troops.
As we approach the opening match, let’s examine the key players who can significantly impact each team’s performance and influence the outcome of the game:
Royal AM
- Mxolisi Macuphu: Mxolisi Macuphu is a seasoned forward known for his goal-scoring ability and versatility on the field. He has played for several clubs in the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) and has a reputation for being a reliable and impactful player.
- Kabelo Mahlasela: Kabelo Mahlasela plays a crucial role in John Maduka’s midfield, bringing an impressive blend of intensity and physical prowess that not only elevates his own performance but also creates opportunities for his teammates to shine and make a significant difference in the game.
- SeraMotebang: Sera Motebang is known for his keen sense of positioning, often finding himself in the right place at the right time to capitalize on scoring opportunities. He also shows good vision and the ability to make key passes that lead to scoring opportunities.
- Hopewell Cele: Despite his young age, Cele shows great composure on the ball, making smart decisions and maintaining control in high-pressure situations. He has excellent dribbling skills, allowing him to navigate through tight defences and maintain possession under pressure.
Cape Town City
- Haashim Domingo: As an attacking midfielder, Domingo excels in creating scoring opportunities with his vision and precise passing. Domingo can play in various midfield roles, including central and attacking midfield, making him a flexible option for his team.
- Darwin Gonzalez: Darwin González is capable of playing both as a forward and a midfielder, González brings flexibility to his team’s attacking options. His ability to take on defenders with pace and skill makes him a constant threat on the wings.
- Jaedin Rhodes: A versatile midfielder who has shown great potential. Rhodes’ ability to play in multiple positions make him a valuable asset for Cape Town City. He is also known for his high energy and work rate, often contributing defensively as well as offensively. Despite his young age, Rhodes shows great composure on the ball, making smart decisions and maintaining control in high-pressure situations.
- Kamohelo Mokotjo: With a wealth of experience from playing in various leagues, including the Eredivisie and Major League Soccer, Mokotjo brings a level of composure and leadership to the midfield. As a defensive midfielder, Mokotjo excels in breaking up opposition play with his tackling and interception skills.
- Keanu Cupido: As a centre-back, Cupido excels in breaking up opposition attacks with his strong tackling and interception skills. His height and timing make him effective in aerial duels, both defensively and offensively during set-pieces.
Written by Marc Strydom