Sekhukhune United booked their place in the MTN8 semi-finals after edging AmaZulu 4-3 in a thrilling quarter-final at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday afternoon. The encounter went all the way to extra time, with both sides producing a dramatic seven-goal contest.
AmaZulu took the lead through Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, who capitalised on a mistake at the back to put Usuthu ahead. Sekhukhune responded just before half-time when Tshepo Mokoena’s long-range effort took a deflection and beat Wilfred Kouassi to make it 1-1 at the break.
The second half brought even more drama as Sekhukhune moved into a 3-1 lead through Givemore Khupe and Ngoanamello Rammala. AmaZulu quickly fought back, with Ngwenya completing his brace before Taariq Fielies levelled the scores at 3-3.
Neither side could find a winner in regulation time, sending the match into extra time. Sekhukhune regained the lead through Vuyo Letlapa in the opening period, and despite AmaZulu’s efforts to force another comeback, Babina Noko held firm to secure the victory.
The result sends Sekhukhune United into the MTN8 semi-finals, joining Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns in the last four. AmaZulu, meanwhile, bow out after a valiant comeback fell just short.
image: Sekhukhune United