AmaZulu and Sekhukhune United reach Carling Knockout quarter-finals

AmaZulu FC and Sekhukhune United secured places in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals with hard-fought victories on Sunday.

AmaZulu, also known as Usuthu, edged Kruger United 1-0 at Mbombela Stadium, with substitute Hendrick Ekstein scoring the decisive penalty late in the match.

Usuthu had two excellent opportunities during the opening 15 minutes but failed to take them. Marcel Dandjinou made a sharp close-range save to deny Mondli Mbanjwa, while Athini Maqokola fired over after being found by Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya, who had made a powerful run down the left.

Kruger United, known as the Village Boys, began the second half with greater attacking intent. Celimpilo Ngema tested Olwethu Mzimela with a firmly struck effort, before Motsie Matima sent a low shot narrowly wide shortly after the hour mark.

However, AmaZulu took the lead in the 77th minute against the run of play. Tatenda Tavengwa handled Nkosikhona Radebe’s shot inside the penalty area, resulting in a spot-kick.

Ekstein, who had been introduced as a substitute, remained composed and sent Dandjinou the wrong way in the 78th minute to put AmaZulu ahead.

Kruger United pushed forward in search of an equaliser and nearly found one during stoppage time. Lesedi Kapinga’s powerful long-range effort appeared destined for the top corner, but Mzimela produced an outstanding fingertip save to preserve AmaZulu’s lead.

Sekhukhune United overcome Richards Bay

Sekhukhune United then booked their quarter-final place with a 3-1 victory over Richards Bay FC at NewPeter Mokaba Stadium.

The evening match remained goalless at half-time after a closely contested opening period in which neither side could establish an advantage.

Sekhukhune broke the deadlock seven minutes after the restart. Chibuike Ohizu received Nyiko Mobbie’s assist before producing a precise left-footed finish from the centre of the box into the bottom-right corner. The goal, scored in the 52nd minute, gave Babina Noko a 1-0 lead.

Sekhukhune continued to control proceedings and doubled their advantage in the 83rd minute, when Thabang Makubo found the net.

Richards Bay responded immediately, reducing the deficit a minute later. Their attempt to recover the match was short-lived, however, as Bethuel Muzeu scored in the 88th minute to complete Sekhukhune United’s 3-1 win.