The position of coach Kwanele Kopo at Pretoria University FC appears increasingly uncertain as the Tshwane outfit approaches a nerve-wracking conclusion to their campaign. AmaTuks have struggled for consistency, managing just seven victories, alongside 11 draws and 10 losses so far.
Their most recent disappointment came in a 1-0 loss to Motsepe Foundation Championship newcomers Lerumo Lions on Saturday, a match in which they also failed to convert a key penalty. The result has intensified scrutiny over the team’s performances under Kopo.
Brought in to succeed Tlisane Motaung, Kopo was expected to lead a strong push for promotion. The squad, on paper, looked well-equipped after a busy recruitment drive that included experienced and emerging talents such as Prince Nxumalo, Aphelele Teto, Abel Mabaso, Veli Mothwa, Sidney Mtshweni and Ntando Nkosi, who joined on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns. Luvuyo Phewa, however, has had limited involvement.
Even with these additions, the team has not delivered results in line with expectations. Many view this as one of the most competitive AmaTuks squads assembled in recent seasons, yet performances have fallen short of that promise. This marks a clear drop-off from previous campaigns, including a second-place finish in 2023/24, a narrow miss in the promotion playoffs, and a 10th-place finish last season.
BLACK LEOPARDS DISPUTE ADDS FURTHER UNCERTAINTYÂ
Complicating matters further is the potential impact of legal action reportedly initiated by Black Leopards, who are battling relegation. The club contends that a transfer ban earlier in the season prevented them from registering players and is now pushing for certain matches played during that period to be replayed.
If their challenge is upheld, it could reshape the league standings — with Pretoria University among the sides that may be affected. Their 2-2 draw against Leopards could be revisited, and any altered outcome might pull AmaTuks closer to danger.
With Midlands Wanderers and The Bees just behind them on 31 points, Pretoria University’s position remains precarious. Any shift in results could tighten the gap significantly, leaving little room for mistakes.
Kopo’s side now faces two critical fixtures to close out the season. They first meet Milford United, who are chasing a playoff berth and sit second behind already-promoted Kruger United. That is followed by a clash against Midlands Wanderers — a fixture that could ultimately decide their fate, especially depending on the outcome of the ongoing legal process.