AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has come to the defence of goalkeeper Richard Ofori, emphasizing the need for psychological support after a crucial mistake cost AmaZulu valuable points against Kaizer Chiefs in the South African Premiership on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.
The Ghanaian goalkeeper had been instrumental in AmaZulu’s 2-1 victory over SuperSport United on February 1, 2025, making two crucial saves.
As a result, he retained his spot in goal when the team traveled to Johannesburg to face the 2015 PSL champions.
Goals from Moremi Tshepang and Kambindu Elmo had put AmaZulu 2-1 ahead, setting them up for a third consecutive win.
However, Ofori’s costly error allowed Kaizer Chiefs to snatch an equalizer.
The former Orlando Pirates shot-stopper misjudged the flight of a cross, inadvertently directing the ball into his own net.
The mistake sparked public outcry in both Ghana and South Africa, with fans criticizing the 31-year-old.
Speaking to SuperSport TV after the game, Zwane expressed his support for Ofori, praising his contributions while urging his technical team to provide the necessary psychological backing.
“Unfortunately, football is a game of mistakes. But as I said earlier, he kept us in the game in the first half. Sometimes, when the pressure mounts, you are bound to crack.
“He made two crucial mistakes—both of which we know he’d normally save and make look easy. Now, it is our job as coaches to support him mentally because we need him. He’s been doing fantastically well for the team,” Zwane said.
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