Why Black Leopards are poised for promotion: Thendo Mukumela explains
Black Leopards captain Thendo Mukumela has revealed what sets the club apart and gives them a competitive edge in their quest to return to the top tier of SA football.
Lidoda Duvha have faced a challenging journey in recent years, struggling to regain their place in the SA elite league. Relegated from the Betway Premiership in the 2020/21 season, the club’s fortunes further declined with relegation from the Motsepe Foundation Championship in the 2022/23 campaign.
However, Leopards managed to return to the second-tier from the amateur ranks – ABC Motsepe League by acquiring the status of All Stars FC.
The Venda-based outfit has shown signs of improvement in the 2024/25 season, currently occupying fifth place in the log standings with 10 points from five matches.
WHAT THENDO MUKUMELA SAID ABOUT BLACK LEOPARDS ON PROMOTION
While last season’s 10th-place finish with 37 points indicated inconsistency, Leopards’ early form suggests a potential turnaround in their fortunes.
Mukumela believes Leopards have a stronger chance at promotion this season. He attributes this to the team’s existing chemistry from last year and the addition of experienced Ghanaian coach Maxwell Konadu.
“Yes, it’s achievable [promotion to the Betway Premiership]. This season, we have a great squad from the start,” Mukumela told FARPost. “Last season, it was a bit difficult because a lot of players, including Sandile [Khumalo] and me, came from AmaZulu FC.
“Now we are here from the start; many players are here from the start. Coach Maxwell [Konadu] is doing very well in maximising all of us.
“At the moment, with Black Leopards, I just want to get promoted back to the Betway Premiership. We all know Black Leopards deserve to be in the PSL. I think everyone in the Venda community would be proud.”
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