Pitso Dladla explains why top-four finish is vital for Durban City

Pitso Dladla addressing the media after the defeat by Magesi FC in Seshego

Durban City FC coach Pitso Dladla has explained why he believes a top-four finish would be a massive boost for the club heading into next season.

Dladla’s troops currently sit in sixth position on the Betway Premiership table, just four points adrift of the top four with 15 points still to play for. However, the Citizens have recently hit a stumbling block, suffering three consecutive defeats.

This disappointing run includes a heavy 5-2 loss to relegation-threatened Magesi FC at the Seshego Stadium on Sunday evening, following previous setbacks against Mamelodi Sundowns and Golden Arrows.

Despite the league slump, the club is preparing for a historic milestone as they compete in their first domestic final against TS Galaxy at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, 2 May 2026.

While a victory in the Nedbank Cup would secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup, Dladla remains focused on the league standings. He insists that clinching a top-four spot is vital, as it would guarantee the club a lucrative home fixture in next season’s MTN8 tournament.

DURBAN CITY COACH WANTS A STRONG FINISH IN THE BETWAY PREMIERSHIP

Durban City starting line-up against Magesi FC at Seshego Stadium
Durban City: Picture by Durban City/Facebook

“As I have said, the target is to finish in a strong top eight position, but there are many dynamics in the top eight,” he told journalists.

“Let me put it like this, you are in the top four next season, when you play top eight, you play at home. Any team would want that. You also know the structure of the draw.”

WHY PITSO DLADLA WANTS A TOP-FOUR FINISH AT THE END OF THE SEASON

“Number one playing number eight, number two playing number seven. So when I say we want to finish in a strong top eight spot, I am referring to such things.”

Meanwhile, before their Nedbank Cup final against TS Galaxy in Polokwane, Durban City are set to face struggling side Orbit College FC in a league match on Friday, 24 April.

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