SuperSport United coach Gavin Hunt has his memorable season clouded by poor results in the cash-strapped Tshwane side. Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
With under 10 games of the 2024/25 season to go, the end is near, and there’s no sugar-coating it but the final international break has just offered up a chance for players to catch their breath.
For several clubs towards the bottom of the Betway Premiership, it’s their last chance to get their act together. With the relegation battle heating up, the tension is palpable as clubs scramble to stay in the top flight.
We’ve seen some heart-stopping moments in recent weeks and that came as no surprise as we’re now entering the business end of the season. Most recently, Richards Bay shocked Kaizer Chiefs on Sunday, two weeks after we witnessed a struggling Marumo Gallants paralyze title contenders Orlando Pirates in Bloemfontein.
To add onto that, Magesi FC, who spent most of their debut season at the bottom of the table, have found a new lease of life and have won three of their last four games, propelling them to 12th spot.
Currently, in the relegation play-offs spot is SuperSport United, a name not many would’ve expected to be a part of the relegation conversation having finished in the Top 8 at the end of 20 consecutive seasons.
Another surprise name in that group is Cape Town City, who parted ways with coach Muhsin Ertugral after just 14 matches, which included three victories, three draws and eight defeats. City are languishing in relegation danger in 13th place in the league.
The club has not yet confirmed who will take charge of the team for the remainder of the season and are set to use this break to find themselves.
Right now, there are several teams just above the danger zone, and they know they can’t afford any mistakes. These teams are looking at the break as a much-needed breath of fresh air, but they’re also thinking about how to come back with renewed focus and energy.
With the Royal AM saga yet to be resolved, at this point, the assumption is that only one club could be at risk of heading to the playoffs with Thwihli Thwahla rooted to the bottom of the log. However, the reality is, these clubs are running out of games. The international break is their final chance to right the wrongs of the season. It’s not just about “getting by”; it’s about making a statement.
The sides who can emerge from the break with their heads held high are the ones who’ll give themselves a fighting chance.
Speaking after Richards Bay win over Chiefs, coach Papi Zothwane emphasised the need to configure his side’s mindset as they look to continue their recent upturn in form. The KwaZulu-Natal based side have lost just one of their last seven matches and are currently unbeaten at home in 2025, just the perfect time to come into rich form.
The likes of Supersport, Gallants, Cape Town City and Magesi will know to use this break wisely to reinforce their tactical setups alongside their mindset’s with a tough last stretch of the campaign coming up.
