Cape Town City Coach Ertugral Confident of Title Challenge Next Season

Despite a 2-1 defeat against Orlando Pirates over the weekend, Cape Town City FC head coach Muhsin Ertugral has boldly claimed that his team can win the South African Premiership next season.

Cape Town City took an early lead at Orlando Stadium through Haashim Domingo, but Pirates mounted a comeback, with Tshegofatso Mabasa and Goodman Mosele securing victory for the hosts.

With three games remaining, Pirates are now 12 points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, but the outcome puts them in the running for the championship. Cape Town City, meantime, is having trouble staying consistent; they have lost five league games in a row, their most recent victory coming on January 17 against Richards Bay FC.

Despite their current struggles, Ertugral remains optimistic about his squad’s potential to challenge for the league title next season. "We have quality players, and if this team stays together, I am certain we can win the league next season," said the Turkish tactician.

With players like Domingo, Prins Tjiueza, Fortune Makaringe, Kamohelo Mokotjo, and Carlos do Carmo, Cape Town City has a formidable team.

Ertugral, however, emphasized his team's lack of consistency, especially when playing away: "We've played 10 games and scored 25 points at home, but we've only scored 12 points from 9 games away. That must be altered.

Ertugral acknowledged the Orlando Pirates' home-field advantage at Orlando Stadium and thanked them as well.

"The depth of the Pirates' squad is amazing. They increase the intensity when they substitute. Another significant factor is the stadium atmosphere, which hinders visiting teams' ability to play at their peak.

Next Challenge for Cape Town City

After their setback against Pirates, Cape Town City will face AmaZulu at King Zwelithini Stadium next Sunday, aiming to end their winless streak and get back on track.