Durban City FC target fast start under Khalil Ben Youssef in Sekhukhune United clash
Durban City FC are eager to begin the new Betway Premiership season with three points in front of their home supporters when they host Sekhukhune United at Chatsworth Stadium on Saturday. The team, who exceeded expectations with a top-eight finish in their maiden top-flight campaign, will be looking to build on their solid defensive foundation and create more opportunities in the final third.
What happened in the last meeting?
The last meeting between the two clubs ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw after Saziso Magawana gave Durban City FC the lead in the 71st minute before Tshepho Mashiloane snatched a late equaliser with just two minutes of normal time remaining.
Why it matters for Durban City FC
Ben Youssef is expected to rely on the solid defensive foundation built last season while encouraging his midfielders to dominate possession and create more opportunities in the final third. His side showed encouraging signs during pre-season, and Saturday's clash will offer the first real indication of how quickly the players have adapted to his philosophy.
What comes next?
Durban City FC will look to the creativity of Haashim Domingo and the finishing ability of Saziso Magawana, while Sekhukhune's attacking threat is expected to come from Tshepho Mashiloane and Bradley Grobler. With a packed Chatsworth Stadium expected and both clubs eager to make a strong start, all the ingredients are in place for an entertaining opening-day contest. For Durban City FC, three points would be the ideal way to launch a new era under Ben Youssef and signal their intention of challenging for another top-eight finish.
League standing: 7th in Premier Soccer League, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form L. Goals this season: 0 scored, 1 conceded (-1 goal difference). Title race: 3 points behind leaders Kaizer Chiefs.
