Eric Tinkler Set to Take Over Sekhukhune United with Marc van Heerden Joining as Assistant

Former Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City coach Eric Tinkler is set to take charge of Sekhukhune United next week following the departure of Lehlohonolo Seema.

Coaching Changes at Sekhukhune

Seema was dismissed after a 2-1 defeat to Richards Bay FC, a result that dropped Babina Noko out of the top three in the Betway Premiership. With ambitions to improve on last season’s fourth-place finish, the club's management made the decision to part ways with him.

In the interim, Kaitano Tembo and Paulus Masehe have been overseeing the squad, but Tinkler is expected to officially take over on Monday, March 10.

Joining him in the technical team will be former Orlando Pirates defender Marc van Heerden, who will serve as his assistant coach. Van Heerden, who previously worked with Tinkler at Cape Town City, retired from professional football in August 2024 and recently obtained his UEFA B Coaching License.

Sekhukhune’s High Expectations

Despite significant investment in the squad, Sekhukhune’s performances this season have fallen short of expectations. The team has scored 26 goals in 23 games while conceding 23, and their struggles in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage added to management’s frustrations.

Tinkler arrives with over a decade of coaching experience, having won the Telkom Knockout and MTN8 titles during his career. His past coaching stints include Orlando Pirates, Maritzburg United, Chippa United, SuperSport United, and Cape Town City.

Nedbank Cup Postponement

Sekhukhune were scheduled to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals this weekend, but the match has been postponed due to a scheduling conflict at Lucas Moripe Stadium, which is hosting a FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup qualifier instead.