Vasco da Gama is “eyeing redemption” in Nedbank Cup Round of 32 after their 0-7 drubbing by TS Galaxy at this same stage of the competition last season
BUT!
Head coach Andrew Pequeno (pictured) and his troops first have to navigate two tricky upcoming Motsepe League home games against Santos FC (24 January) followed by Zizwe United (7 February) – and this according to Pequeno, is extremely crucial leading up to their Nedbank Cup Last 32 tie against fellow Motsepe League rivals Luthuli Brigades from Mpumalanga.
This match is scheduled for early February in Athlone Stadium however the PSL still need to confirm this.
Pequeno cited that his main priority is to keep his players’ focus on these two Motsepe league games.
“It is important that we need to get as many points as possible from these matches,” Pequeno pointed out to No Bones with Jones. “But these are two very tough games, Santos and Zizwe so we have to plan accordingly,” Pequeno added.
No one can deny that Pequeno has stamped his authority on this league and turned Vasco into serial winners. To give an example, since Pequeno took charge of Vasco three seasons ago, they only lost six out of 74 games (league and cup games) while bagging the Third Division League title, promotion to the Second Division, and two back-to-back Nedbank Cup titles.
In a major development, the PSL confirmed that Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology will be tested during the competition This marks a significant step toward modernizing officiating standards in South African football. The trial will focus on key knockout fixtures, ensuring referees have additional support for critical decisions.
PHOTO SUPPLIED BY RKDG MEDIA
