Kwanele Kopo acknowledges Nedbank Cup disadvantage

TS Galaxy – all the way back in 2019 – were the first and last second-tier outfit to win what is recognised as the national "FA" cup, which drew much fan fare after they had beaten Kaizer Chiefs in the final.

But with AmaTuks, who face Hungry Lions at Mxolisi Dicky Jacobs Stadium on Sunday, Kopo has admitted the odds are heavily stacked against lower tier sides given the lack of exposure to knockout competitions, other than featuring in the Ke Yona event.

"I think generally there is that concern for that division that there may not be enough competitions, especially knockout competitions, to give players experience in preparation for the higher level. Similarly, at the higher level, you sometimes hear clubs saying there are too many cup competitions.

"There is that concern because competitions give experience, practice and education to players," said Kopo

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AmaTuks' best run in the competition dates back to 2009, when they were runners-up to Moroka Swallows, and more recently were eliminated from the quarterfinals by Mamelodi Sundowns in 2024.

Kopo's appointment in July last year will come with expectations to deliver tangible success in his spell, but that is not one or two-dimensional, with promotion the "ultimate goal."

The Nedbank Cup is, of course, also an ambition, but tangible success includes the development of high-level talent capable of being shipped on to bigger and better clubs locally and abroad.

The former SuperSport United and Wits University youth mentor also revealed his mandate to update the AmaTuks playing software.

"I also think one of the biggest factors why I was brought to AmaTuks was to change the brand of football the institution has been playing.

"Since its inception, Tuks has been known to play a certain brand of football, and one of the major challenges I face is changing many years of history while at the same time achieving success."

Notably, Kopo highlighted the stature of AmaTuks in Southern Africa, with the coach asked to give clear context.