Liam Bern urges AmaZulu to bounce back in today's KZN Derby

Usuthu will host the Natal Rich Boys at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday as they look to recover from last weekend's disappointing 2-1 defeat to the lower-division side, who progressed to the semi-finals of the competition.

Bern acknowledged the loss had taken its toll on the squad, especially given the opportunity they believed was within reach after several Premiership teams had already been eliminated from the tournament.

"Obviously, it was quite a big knock for us because we thought it was there for the taking," Bern told Sowetan.

"We now need to work harder, even though the last few days have been quite draining emotionally."

The midfielder, however, insists the derby clash against Richards Bay presents the ideal stage for the Durban-based club to respond positively.

"It's always a good game against Bay, so we are looking forward to it and to finally put the Nedbank Cup disappointment behind us," he said.

"We are going to give everything because we should bounce back."

Bern also revealed his personal ambition to experience continental football with AmaZulu next season, expressing confidence that the club can secure qualification for one of Africa's major club competitions.

"Honestly, it has been one of my dreams to play in CAF competitions," he added.

"I think we would learn so much there as a team, and I do believe that we can qualify for one of the two CAF tournaments, whether it's the Champions League or the Confederation Cup."