Former Bloemfontein Celtic coach Tony De Nobrega says it is still too early to get excited about AmaZulu FC’s strong start to the new season. The Usuthu side has looked sharp in the opening weeks of the 2026/2027 Betway Premiership, but De Nobrega believes the real test is still ahead.

AmaZulu sit third on the log with 19 points from eight matches. They have won six, drawn one and lost only once. The campaign began with a solid 1-0 away victory over Stellenbosch FC. A 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates followed, before a heavy 5-2 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns. Since then the team has put together a four-game winning run. Their latest success was a 2-1 win over Durban City in the Durban derby, with goals from Mlondi Mbanjwa and Athini Maqokola.

Coach Arthur Zwane has the side looking organised and dangerous. They trail league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by four points but have a game in hand. Many fans are already talking about a possible title push.

De Nobrega, however, is not ready to join the conversation. “It’s still too early; only a few games have been played so far this season,” he said. “AmaZulu have started well, but we will see in the second half of the season if they can maintain their good start. For now, it is too early to tell. The bigger teams always come out on top in the end. I’m sure it’s going to be the same this season.”

His caution comes from years of watching South African football. Clubs often start brightly, only to fade when the fixtures get tougher and injuries start to bite. Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates have shown over many seasons that they know how to finish the job.

AmaZulu’s recent form has given supporters hope. The four straight wins have lifted the mood around the club. Yet De Nobrega’s words serve as a reminder that eight matches do not make a season. The coming months will show whether Zwane’s team can keep this pace or if the traditional big sides will pull away as expected.

Source: https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2112127876518592938