As part of their preparations for the new season, one of the affiliates of the Safa Vhembe Hollywoodbets League, ABC FC, has strengthened its technical department by acquiring the services of Mr. Mashudu “Dunga” Nkhumeleni, former head coach of Dipeni FC, who will now serve as technical director. The deal was sealed last Friday, 14 June.

Dunga Nkhumeleni is a familiar name in the local football fraternity. After playing for Sambandou United Professionals for several years, the 45-year-old Dunga moved to the now-defunct Zwigodini Real Vikings, where he played for two seasons. He later joined the then Vodacom Promotional League side, Vhembe Soccer Academy FC.

His coaching career began in 2018 when he was appointed head coach of Sambandou United Professionals. Under his guidance, United Professionals qualified to participate in the Safa Vhembe promotional playoffs for two consecutive seasons. Unfortunately, the team did not succeed in the playoffs on both occasions.

His tenure with Professionals ended when he moved to Dipeni FC two years ago. He led Dipeni FC to the promotional playoffs last season. When asked why he decided to leave Dipeni for ABC FC, the soft-spoken Nkhumeleni said that Mr. Lucas Tshibalo, chairman of ABC FC, had made him an offer he could not refuse.

Nkhumeleni stated that ABC FC aimed to gain promotion to the ABC Motsepe League Division by the end of next season. He believes this mandate is achievable, given that ABC FC has all the necessary resources. Dunga holds a Level C coaching license.

Confirming Dunga’s appointment, ABC FC chairman Mr. Lucas Tshibalo expressed his admiration for Nkhumeleni’s coaching track record. He appealed to local football enthusiasts to watch ABC FC in the upcoming soccer season. ABC FC finished sixth in their stream at the end of the recently concluded league programme.