Kamatuka stresses focus as Durban City aim for Nedbank Cup success

The Citizens will be aiming to secure their first Nedbank Cup title when they take on TS Galaxy on Saturday evening, returning to the final for the first time since 2018 when the club, then known as Maritzburg United, fell short against Free State Stars.

Kamatuka believes managing emotions and sticking to their usual approach will be crucial when they step onto the pitch at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium at 18:00.

"It's all in the mind it's a mindset. It's just another game. It's a big occasion but the same game that we play everyday. It's the same thing but it is a big occasion. But we need to stay calm as players and support each other and just enjoy the moment. We should not get caught up in the occasion but just do our best," said Kamatuka

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Both teams have had to navigate instability on the bench in the build-up to the final, with Durban City currently led by an interim coach, Pitso Dladla, following a series of coaching changes during the season.

The club parted ways with Sinethemba Badela earlier in the campaign, while experienced coach Gavin Hunt also had a brief stint, leaving Dladla to guide the side in the closing stages.

The Namibian international says despite the changes, the players remain focused on their responsibilities and are determined to deliver on the field.

Their opponents, TS Galaxy, have also experienced disruption in their technical setup after the recent departure of head coach Adnan Beganovic last week.

Kamatuka insists Durban City are not reading too much into the situation, adding that finals are decided by performances on the day rather than off-field matters.

He says the focus remains firmly on executing their game plan and not being distracted by external factors.

Kamatuka’s journey in South African football began with Umoya United in 2018, before spells at Baroka FC and Maritzburg United, which was later rebranded as Durban City in 2023.

He played a key role in helping the club secure promotion to the Betway Premiership after winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship last season.

Now, the forward has his sights set on lifting the Nedbank Cup, a victory that would not only mark a historic moment for the club but also secure qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup.