Durban City FC head coach Pitso Dladla has sounded the alarm ahead of their Nedbank Cup semi-final.
He is warning his players against “creeping individualism” that could cripple their progress.
City face Casric Stars at Chatsworth Stadium this Saturday, with a place in the final on the line — match starts at 3pm.
“You have to coach them… in games like this, players become individuals rather than team players,” Dladla cautioned.
Despite the high stakes, the coach insists his focus is on keeping the team grounded and united.
“We are preparing like any other game. But playing at home is a big motivation,” he said.
Durban City have been formidable at Chatsworth this season, but Dladla is wary of a Casric side that has earned a reputation as giant-killers.
Stars have already knocked out Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC — both after extra time — and have won every match away from home in the competition.
“This cup is full of surprises. We don’t want to be one of them,” Dladla added.
City, however, will be without key midfielder Kyle Jurgens, who is suspended — a major blow ahead of the clash.
Stars chairman and coach Bucs Mthombeni highlighted what winning the Nedbank Cup would do for his club’s growth as a brand.
“It would be an incredible feeling,” Mthombeni said on the potential of winning their first ever cup title.
“Beyond the trophy, it would attract more supporters and sponsors.
“Following in TS Galaxy’s footsteps by winning from the second division would be a historic moment — not just for Mpumalanga, but for the future of Casric Stars.”
In the other semi-final, TS Galaxy host Milford FC at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium on Sunday at 3pm.