Durban City turn to new signings to solve early-season scoring woes

Durban City coach Khalil Ben Youssef anticipates reinforcements will aid his side in overcoming early-season scoring issues, as the team has only scored once in their first three league matches. That lone goal came from an own goal by Richards Bay defender Thembela Sikhakhane during a 1-1 draw at Chatsworth Stadium, with City still seeking goals from their own players.

Ben Youssef maintains the problem stems from a lack of finishing efficiency rather than a lack of attacking intent, noting that City generates numerous opportunities but fails to capitalize on them. He specifically cites their expected goals (xG) analysis, which currently exceeds 2.5, indicating the potential for more than two goals.

To address this, City has recently signed midfielder Ethan Brooks and left-back Alou Doumbia, both of whom are now registered and available for selection. Doumbia provides an additional option on the left flank, while Brooks offers depth in midfield. Ben Youssef also hinted at further signings, with two or three more players expected to bolster the attacking options once they join the team.

For City, these new additions are urgently needed, particularly given the challenges Ben Youssef faced in managing the squad during a grueling back-to-back derby schedule. The coach admitted the team had to rotate players carefully, as they do not have the luxury of a large squad like some of their opponents. Ben Youssef dismissed suggestions that the team's poor performances reflected a failure to follow his tactical instructions, emphasizing that they controlled matches against Richards Bay and Arrows but were unlucky not to score from penalties.

With the next league fixture on August 25, City's focus now shifts to converting promising build-up play into goals, a task that Ben Youssef believes his expanding squad can help achieve.