Ncube names Zwane as toughest opponent

AmaZulu FC midfielder Butholezwe Ncube has revealed Mamelodi Sundowns winger Themba Zwane as his toughest opponent.

Zwane has been one of the most outstanding players this season as the Bafana Bafana international looks to help Masandawana defend their Absa Premiership title.

The current campaign has been suspended since last March due to the coronavirus pandemic with Zwane having netted the most goals (nine) for Sundowns in the league.

Ncube has faced Masandawana twice this season with Zwane, 30, tormenting Usuthu's defence with his dribbling skills and clever movement in league and Telkom Knockout Cup matches.

"My toughest opponent is Themba Zwane," Ncube, who is a Zimbabwean defensive midfielder, told supersport.com.

"He is good on the ball and he is always looking to play passes through the opposition's defence for his teammates.

"He knows how to control the [tempo of the] game at any given time with his understanding of his teammates."

Zwane registered two assists as the Tshwane giants thumped Usuthu 5-0 in the Telkom Knockout first-round match at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on 20 October 2019.

Before grabbing a brace which inspired Sundowns to an emphatic 3-0 win over AmaZulu in a league encounter at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 04 January 2020.

"He can score goals and also contribute assists. His team knows how to keep possession. But even without possession, they are still good," the 28-year-old explained.

"Their understanding is very good and they know how each player plays and how they should operate whenever they are attacking or defending.

"Their biggest strength is keeping possession until they get what we are always aiming for which is goals."

The suspended campaign is expected to be completed in a Biologically Safe Environment (BSE) in Gauteng soon.