Dladla balances cup dream with league ambitions

The Citizens have exceeded expectations in their return to top-flight football, positioning themselves as strong contenders for a top-three finish while also securing a spot in the Nedbank Cup final after edging Casric Stars 1-0 at Chatsworth Stadium over the weekend.

Dladla has praised the club’s leadership, highlighting the structure and commitment behind the scenes, saying it gives the team confidence they can successfully compete on both fronts.

"We are manned by a team led by our chairman and they've been in this game for more than two decades. This club is not only managed by us and the players, but the club needs strong leadership and we are where we are today because of all the hard work that has been done behind the scenes.

"With the leadership backing us, I believe we can finish well in both the league and the cup."

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Following a period of instability that saw the exits of Sinethemba Badela and earlier Gavin Hunt, Dladla, together with the remaining technical staff, have brought consistency back to the team.

Under his guidance, Durban City have emerged as genuine contenders in the league and now find themselves one match away from lifting major silverware this season.

Despite the growing calls for him to take on the role permanently, Dladla says his immediate focus remains on completing his CAF A License before considering a long-term head coaching position.

"I want to make things clear so that people don't say what they think or say wrong things. I've got personal ambitions as a coach and I still want to achieve them.

"I have missed previous opportunities to do my CAF A licence because of my commitment here with the team, so I'm still waiting for that chance."

Winning the Nedbank Cup comes with the added reward of qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup, offering clubs a chance to compete on the continental stage.

While the opportunity is appealing, Dladla has reiterated that coaching at that level requires the appropriate credentials, particularly a CAF A License, which remains one of his key professional goals.

The KZN outfit turn their attention back to league action when they host defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Tuesday evening.

Sundowns arrive aiming to maintain their narrow lead at the top of the standings as the title race intensifies.

For City, the encounter presents a crucial opportunity, as a victory could lift them from sixth into fourth place, level on points with AmaZulu and strengthening their push for a top finish with only a handful of matches remaining.