AmaZulu FC head coach Pablo Franco Martin has made a bold claim ahead of meeting Nasreddine Nabi-led Kaizer Chiefs in the midweek.
Usuthu will host Amakhosi at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday, 25 September, with the match scheduled to commence at 7:30 pm.
The KZN side will be looking to bounce back after opening the 2024/25 Betway Premiership campaign with a defeat at the hands of Polokwane City.
Meanwhile, Chiefs will be aiming to maintain a winning streak having begun the season with a victory over Marumo Gallants.
Martin noted he and Nabi know each other well having been rivals in the Tanzanian Premier League when the Spanish coach was at Simba SC while the Tunisian tactician was spearheading Young Africans.
However, Martin confidently stated AmaZulu would “be better” than Chiefs on the day, recalling that the Durban-based beat Amakhosi in their backyard last season in the first round.
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“I know Nasreddine for a long time ago, we played against each other,” said Martin.
“I know how difficult it is to beat him, I’m sure that he’s bringing fresh air to Kaizer Chiefs.
“Any coach when comes to any team does like that, he has experience. On one hand I think it’s gonna be difficult, and on the other hand I think the advantage or the disadvantage it depends on the way you look at it, is that we know each other.
“We already know what works and what does not work. So, I think it’s gonna be interesting battle but I think we’re not important, the ones who are important are the ones with talent on the pitch who are going to control the emotions.
“I’m sure 100% that our guys are gonna be better than the guys. I think we are already showed them what we are capable of, we already beat them this season.
“I’m looking forward to the game and see how AmaZulu players are going to be able to beat Chiefs players who are the main characters of the match.”
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