Casric Stars FC stunned top-flight opponents AmaZulu FC with a 2–1 victory after extra time in their Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash this Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
AmaZulu made several changes to their starting line-up, with Wandile Dube, Pule Ekstein, Mhlongo and Hlangabeza all starting, while Casric Stars handed Mfundo Thikazi a start and welcomed Rakwena Thabang back from suspension. The match was played under windy conditions.
Usuthu threatened early and created back-to-back chances in the 11th minute, but Casric struck against the run of play in the 15th minute. A quick counter-attack saw Mfundo Thikazi finish from close range after an assist from Skelem.
AmaZulu pushed for a response, but Casric goalkeeper Tshigwana Mthombeni produced a key save to deny the hosts. Usuthu were later forced into a change in the 33rd minute when Richard Ofori replaced the injured Darren Johnson.
AmaZulu eventually found the equaliser early in the second half, with Pule Ekstein making it 1–1 in the 49th minute.
Ekstein was booked deep into stoppage time after being judged to have dived in the box while appealing for a penalty, sending the match into extra time. There was further drama when Ofori handled the ball outside the box and received a yellow card.
Casric ultimately found the decisive moment in extra time as substitute Chauke Decide scored to seal a memorable 2–1 victory and send the Motsepe Foundation Championship side into the semi-finals.
Images : amazulufc