AmaZulu FC secured a 1-0 victory over Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Sunday afternoon to advance in the Carling Knockout, with a second-half penalty proving to be the difference between the two sides.
The match, which kicked off at 15:00, was the third fixture of the tournament and got off to a lively start. Kruger United won a corner inside the opening minute before a free-kick followed shortly afterwards, although neither opportunity resulted in a goal. AmaZulu goalkeeper Olwethu Mzimela was called into action early, making a comfortable save in the second minute.
The opening stages were also marked by disciplinary action, with Sipho Sibiya receiving a yellow card in the third minute following a challenge on Mlondi Mbanjwa. Khethukuthula Ndlovu of Kruger United was booked a minute later for a challenge on Fielies.
AmaZulu came close to breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute when Mbanjwa’s header forced an excellent save from the Kruger United goalkeeper. Maqokolo then missed a one-on-one opportunity in the 13th minute as Usuthu continued to search for the opening goal.
The sides went into the break without finding the back of the net. AmaZulu got a free-kick on the edge of the box in the 51st minute, but Fielies’ effort struck the wall. Mzimela was called upon in the 58th minute, saving a shot from Ngema to keep his side in the contest.
The decisive moment arrived in the 75th minute when Tavengwa handled the ball inside the penalty area. The referee pointed to the spot and produced a caution, while the Kruger United goalkeeper was also booked for protesting.
Substitute, Pule Ekstein stepped up and calmly converted the penalty to give AmaZulu the lead.
Kruger United pushed for an equaliser, but Mzimela produced another superb save in the 91st minute to preserve AmaZulu’s advantage. The match ended 1-0 in favour of Usuthu.
Meanwhile, Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya walked away with the R100,000 prize after being voted the fans’ choice.