Xanti Pupuma on how Milford FC benefitted from beating Chiefs

9 Views

Milford FC chairman Dr Xanti Pupuma has discussed the impact of beating the mighty Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup last season.

At the time, Pupuma himself was holding the fort following the sacking of coach Asanda Mvalo earlier in the season.

A little was known about the Richards Bay-based side before they went to FNB Stadium, yet they managed to overcome the Chiefs in their backyard, advancing to the Last 16 of the Nedbank Cup.

Milford triumphed over Amakhosi in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 5-4 after a goalless draw in both regulation and extra time.

Pupuma says eliminating Chiefs, who are one of the most prominent clubs in Africa, not only catapulted Milford into the national spotlight but also significantly enhanced their standing within the South African football landscape.

MILFORD FC BOSS TALKS BENEFIT OF BEATING KAIZER CHIEFS

“Yeah it [helped us] from the marketing point of view, from getting [attention] in South Africa, especially after the Kaizer Chiefs game,” Pupuma told FARPost in an exclusive interview.

“But I think for the boys, because we retained most of the players. The plan was to always try and stay in the division as difficult as it was but it was done.

“We sort of trying and build the team that can now try and challenge [for the championship].”

Christian Saile tackled by Milford FC defender – Picture by Kaizer Chiefs

Despite their impressive win over Chiefs, the KZN side faced challenges towards the end of the campaign, finding themselves battling relegation.

Nevertheless, they successfully retained their second-tier status. Pupuma has made it clear that the club’s main focus is on ensuring their survival in the league before setting their sights on other ambitions.