AmaZulu striker Thandolwethu Ngwenya backed for Golden Boot success

AmaZulu FC striker Thandolwethu Ngwenya has been tipped to win the Premiership Golden Boot after scoring eight goals in his first seven appearances of the 2026/27 campaign.

The Zimbabwean international maintained his remarkable form in Usuthu’s most recent match, scoring the only goal in a hard-fought 1-0 away victory over Polokwane City at Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Ngwenya has scored in each of AmaZulu’s seven successive league fixtures, a run that has created South African football history. His contribution also includes one assist, underlining his importance to a side that has made an impressive start to the season.

AmaZulu are third on the log with 16 points from their opening seven matches. Their progress has been strengthened by a three-game winning run under coach Zwane.

Asked whether Ngwenya had the ability to finish as the league’s leading scorer, Zwane said: “Yes, he does. He’s got the qualities for that [winning top goal scorer award].”

The AmaZulu manager stressed, however, that the club must ensure the striker is not placed under excessive pressure as expectations grow around his scoring record.

“The only thing that we are trying to do now is to protect him, not to put him under pressure. Hence I am saying other players need to come to the party and score goals. Not that we are not creating opportunities,” Zwane said.

He added that Ngwenya should not view every game without a goal as a failure to contribute to the team.

“So that he doesn’t think too much about if he is not scoring, then he’s failing the team. Other players must also play their part. Having said that, before he scores goals, obviously there will always be an assist.

“So it becomes a build-up. We are happy for him, and hopefully he will continue where he left off when we come back from the international break.”

Xulu provides closest challenge

Ngwenya currently leads the scoring charts, although Richards Bay FC forward Nqaba Xulu remains within reach. The newly signed free agent has scored five goals in seven appearances.

AmaZulu will resume their campaign after the international break with a KwaZulu-Natal derby against Durban City FC.

The Premiership fixture will take place at Chatsworth Stadium on Tuesday, 13 October 2026, as Zwane’s team attempt to extend their strong early-season run.