Stellenbosch beaten by AmaZulu as Langelihle Phili misses Betway Premiership opener

AmaZulu FC began their Betway Premiership campaign with a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at the Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium, with Thando Ngwenya’s second-half penalty deciding the contest.

Langelihle Phili was a notable absentee from the Stellenbosch squad as coach Gavin Hunt introduced several new faces. Sinoxolo Kwayiba, who joined from Chippa United, was handed a starting role in attack.

AmaZulu also included two new signings in their opening line-up. Former Stellenbosch left-back Omega Mdaka started against his old club, while Gape Moralo was also brought straight into the team.

Although Stellenbosch were officially the home side, the match was played in Durban because no stadiums were available in Cape Town over the weekend as a result of ongoing rugby activities.

AmaZulu, managed by Arthur Zwane, controlled much of the possession during the opening stages. However, it took until the 20-minute mark for either side to create a clear opportunity.

Athini Maqokola was the first player to seriously test a goalkeeper when he struck a powerful effort towards goal, but Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens produced a save to keep the score level.

The pattern continued for the remainder of the first half. Stephens was required to make further interventions, while AmaZulu goalkeeper Mzimela had comparatively little to do as Stellenbosch struggled to create meaningful pressure in the final third.

Ngwenya penalty settles the match

Hunt chose not to alter his approach at half-time, leaving Devin Titus among the substitutes. AmaZulu took advantage of the opening and broke the deadlock in the 59th minute.

Mosa Lebusa was penalised for fouling Maqokola inside the Stellenbosch penalty area, allowing Ngwenya to take responsibility from the spot. He converted the penalty to give AmaZulu a 1-0 lead.

Stellenbosch responded with a double substitution shortly after the hour mark as Hunt introduced Titus and new signing Siviwe Nkwali. Avuzwa Mbembe and Lebusa were withdrawn as the home side looked for a way back into the match.

The changes failed to produce the desired response. Stellenbosch were unable to register any serious attempts on the AmaZulu goal during the closing stages and could not find an equaliser.

AmaZulu, meanwhile, had opportunities to put the result beyond doubt but were unable to make the most of their openings in the Stellenbosch penalty area. That lack of finishing did not prove costly, however, as Zwane’s side held on for three points in their first league match of the season.

The result leaves AmaZulu with a winning start to their Betway Premiership campaign, while Stellenbosch must begin the season with defeat despite playing at what was designated as their home fixture.