AmaTuks have parted ways with head coach Kwanele Kopo following a disappointing Motsepe Foundation Championship campaign that fell well short of the club’s promotion ambitions.
Kopo arrived at AmaTuks amid high expectations after replacing Tlisane Motaung, with the university side hoping to mount a serious challenge for promotion to the Betway Premiership.
The club appeared well-equipped for that task after investing significantly in the squad. Pretoria University assembled a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent, including Prince Nxumalo, Aphelele Teto, Abel Mabaso, Veli Mothwa, Sidney Mtshweni and Mamelodi Sundowns loanee Ntando Nkosi. Luvuyo Phewa was also added to the squad but saw limited action throughout the season.
Despite the investment and quality available, results failed to match expectations.
AMATUKS RECORD UNDER KWANELE KOPO
AmaTuks won just eight of their 30 league matches, drawing 11 and losing 11. They finished 11th on the Motsepe Foundation Championship table with 35 points, scoring 37 goals while conceding 41.
Club management viewed the campaign as a major disappointment, particularly given the strength and depth of the squad.
There is a belief within the club that this was one of the most talented AmaTuks squads assembled in recent years, yet the performances and results never reflected that potential.
The outcome represents a significant regression from the club’s recent progress. In the 2023/24 season, AmaTuks finished second and narrowly missed promotion after falling short in the promotion/relegation playoffs. Expectations were, therefore, considerably higher heading into the season under Kopo.
Instead, the former SuperSport United coach oversaw a frustrating campaign that ultimately cost him his job as the club looks to reset ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Pretoria University are expected to begin the search for a new head coach in the coming weeks, with pre-season preparations scheduled to resume at the end of June.
KOPO SPEAKS OUT AFTER PARTING WAYS WITH AMATUKS: ‘I AM THANKFUL FOR THE OPPORTUNITY’
On Monday, AmaTuks announced the departure of Kwanele Kopo, with club CEO Kenneth Neluvhalani expressing gratitude for the coach’s services and professionalism.
“The University of Pretoria Football Club officially announces that the club and the Head Coach have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect,” reads the club statement.
Neluvhalani added: “AmaTuks would like to express its deepest gratitude for the level of professionalism and dedication of the coach during his tenure at the club. We are grateful for his service and the knowledge imparted to our players and staff during his stay. He made a meaningful contribution to the club’s technical development and competitive progress. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Meanwhile, Kopo thanked the club for the opportunity. “I am thankful for the opportunity afforded to me by the club. I will always appreciate the time spent here at AmaTuks. In addition, I am grateful for the support from the Chairman of the Board, Mr Xolani Hadebe, the Director of TuksSport, Mr Steven Ball, and the CEO, Mr Kenneth Neluvhalani. I’m thankful to the AmaTuks staff, players, and the University of Pretoria community at large.”
“The club concluded its statement by extending appreciation to its players, supporters, partners, and stakeholders for their ongoing support during this transition period.”
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