TUT Matsatsantsa coach Christina Kutumela welcomes WAFCON break

Kutumela’s team played their final Hollywoodbets Super League game before the continental competition, against Richmond United this past weekend, and will only return on August 2 when they take on Copper Belts FC.

She says it’s important to balance football with their studies since they’re actually a learning institution.

"We are an academic institution, so the players must find a way to balance their football with academic responsibilities. Most of them are overwhelmed with juggling these responsibilities, but we will guide them and give them the necessary two-week break," said the Red Army coach. 

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Having said that, the coach says her players will not be given a long rest during the WAFCON tournament as they do not want to compromise their fitness.

She does admit that most of them do need a couple of weeks to focus on exams, and will be afforded the time to do so.

The 1-0 win against Richmond United on Sunday took them to eight victories for the season after 15 games played, and they have now accumulated 27 points.

Kutumela says she is satisfied with where they are at the halfway point of the 2025 season.

"I'm far from disappointed, and I'm especially proud of the new players who are playing in the Super League for the very first time. Having to play against the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns and TS Galaxy Queens is not easy, but I'm satisfied with our points tally so far," elaborated Kutumela.  

The 26-player squad named by Desiree Ellis yesterday does not have any TUT players included, and Kutumela was coy when asked about the national team’s chances of success at the tournament.

She does, however, believe they will fight tooth and nail to defend their title in Morocco.

"Honestly, we're just hoping for the best. I know they will go to Morocco and represent us well, and they will fight for the country."