AmaZulu and Sekhukhune United name their starting XIs for MTN8 opener

AmaZulu host Sekhukhune United in the first round of the MTN8 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with both sides aiming to build on winning starts to the new season.

Arthur Zwane’s AmaZulu arrive in confident mood after opening their Betway Premiership campaign with a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC last weekend.

Usuthu are returning to the MTN8 and will be determined to make further progress this time after their campaign ended in the opening round last season. They were beaten by Stellenbosch FC at that stage.

Sekhukhune United also began the new season with three points, defeating Durban City 1-0 last weekend. The result gave new coach Cedric Kaze a winning debut in charge.

The two teams drew both of their Premiership meetings last season, but Sekhukhune have not lost in their past four matches against AmaZulu.

AmaZulu have confirmed their starting line-up for the cup tie, while Sekhukhune United’s team remains to be announced.

AmaZulu starting XI: Kouassi, Radebe, Allan, Fielies, Hanamub, Mdaka, Moralo, Zikhali, Ngwenya, Maqokolo, Mbanjwa

AmaZulu substitutes: Mzimela, Mthethwa, Bern, Mhlongo, Hlangabeza, Sithole, Mokoena, Lekoloane, Mashigo

Sekhukhune United: TBA

The match provides both clubs with an early opportunity to make an impression in the MTN8, with AmaZulu seeking to avoid another first-round exit and Sekhukhune looking to continue the momentum created by their successful league opener.

For Kaze, the fixture is another chance to strengthen the positive start made against Durban City. Zwane’s side, meanwhile, will hope their victory over Stellenbosch FC can provide a platform for a strong cup performance.

AmaZulu’s home advantage at Moses Mabhida Stadium will be tested by a Sekhukhune team that has proved difficult for them to overcome in recent meetings. Although last season’s league encounters ended level, Sekhukhune’s unbeaten run against Usuthu currently stands at four matches.

The confirmed AmaZulu team includes Kouassi, Radebe, Allan, Fielies and Hanamub in the defensive unit, with Mdaka, Moralo and Zikhali also selected. Ngwenya, Maqokolo and Mbanjwa complete the starting XI.

On the bench, AmaZulu have Mzimela, Mthethwa, Bern, Mhlongo, Hlangabeza, Sithole, Mokoena, Lekoloane and Mashigo available as substitutes. Sekhukhune United’s line-up and substitutes have yet to be confirmed.