AFC Leopards coach close to South African move

What you need to know:

  • His assistant, compatriot Marko Vasiljevic has since taken charge on interim basis leading the club to a one-all draw against Kariobangi Sharks in the league opener last Sunday.
  • Free State Stars is ranked 11th on the 16-team standings with 13 points from 14 rounds.

AFC Leopards coach Serbian Nikola Kavazovic is expected in South Africa on Thursday to take up Premier Soccer League (PSL) outfit Free State Stars job.

The head coach position at the Bethlehem-based club fell vacant following the resignation of Belgian Luc Eymael, who joined Egyptian side El Gaish last month.

Free State Stars General Manager Rantsi Mokoena is quoted on South African newspaper Daily Sun confirming reaching a two-and-a-half year deal with the 43-year-old Serbian.

“You can only hope for the best once the coach comes,” said Mokoena, revealing that the team is currently under the temporary care of assistant coach Selatse Mosala and David Vilakazi.

When contacted, Kavazovic - who returned home to comfort his ailing dad on December 1, did not want to comment on the matter.

The former Botswana side Township Rollers coach joined Leopards last month on a two-year contract.

His assistant, compatriot Marko Vasiljevic has since taken charge on interim basis leading the club to a one-all draw against Kariobangi Sharks in the league opener last Sunday.

Free State Stars is ranked 11th on the 16-team standings with 13 points from 14 rounds.