GENERAL

Dortley: Zwane’s Time at Chiefs Won’t Help AmaZulu

Arthur Zwane’s vast experience with Kaizer Chiefs, where he spent 24 years in various roles, is not expected to give AmaZulu an advantage at FNB Stadium this Tuesday (19:30).

This viewpoint was expressed by Chiefs defender Rushwin Dortley, who has displayed outstanding form this season following his transfer from Cape Town Spurs during the off-season.

Zwane moved from overseeing the academy at Chiefs to becoming a co-coach at AmaZulu alongside Vusi Vilakazi in October.

During his successful period at Chiefs from 2000 to 2010, he made 252 appearances, netting 32 goals, and earning a remarkable 12 trophies with the Glamour Boys.

He also guided Chiefs to the CAF Champions League final in 2021, making history as the first South African club to win in Morocco by defeating Wydad Casablanca in the semifinals on their way to the final.




For these accomplishments, he is celebrated as a club legend.

However, Dortley dismisses the notion that ‘10111’ has insider insights that could aid AmaZulu.

“We have thoroughly prepared for this match and devised a solid strategy,” he asserts, adding, “Since Arthur Zwane’s leaving, the situation has evolved here, with new coaches onboard. Thus, I don’t believe he has any special knowledge of the current team dynamics.”

This upcoming match marks the first game of the second round in the Betway Premiership, with Chiefs determined to improve their position in search of a strong finish and the associated rewards.

“Our goal is to win every match and gather maximum points to ascend the table,” Dortley notes. “While we still hold a mathematical chance of competing for the league title, our aim is at least a top-three finish to qualify for next season’s CAF competitions. We are eager to represent the club on the continent once again.”

Chiefs approach this fixture on the heels of a loss to Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby, which attracted a full crowd at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The match took an emotional toll on all associated with the club, especially after a last-minute defeat due to a dubious penalty converted by Patrick Maswanganyi.

With little time to recover between fixtures, players’ fitness and stamina are put to the test, yet Dortley expresses assurance in the coaching staff’s ability to prepare them for the forthcoming match.

“Our conditioning coach is outstanding. He knows precisely what he’s doing. We’ve followed his recovery protocols and are ready to put forth our best effort on Tuesday,” he shares.

Dortley, who has signed a contract until 2027 and has become a part of the Bafana Bafana setup, has participated in 16 matches across all competitions for Chiefs so far. He has yet to find the net for Amakhosi, and when asked about this, he smiles, “Hopefully on Tuesday.”

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