AmaZulu FC Edge Polokwane City 2-1 After Extra Time to Reach Nedbank Cup Last 16
AmaZulu FC secured their place in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 after a hard fought 2-1 victory over Polokwane City in extra time on Tuesday night. The clash delivered drama, intensity and a late winner that kept Usuthu’s cup ambitions alive. Arthur Zwane’s side showed resilience and patience against a determined Polokwane outfit that refused to fold despite playing with ten men for most of the match. The result keeps AmaZulu FC in contention for domestic silverware this season and strengthens their push in one of South Africa’s most competitive knockout tournaments. With the Nedbank Cup known for surprises, this performance underlined AmaZulu’s intent to go deep in the competition.
AmaZulu made a perfect start and capitalised on early pressure in the 10th minute. Sandile Mthethwa produced a clever flick at the near post that caught the Polokwane defence off guard. Taariq Fielies reacted quickest and headed home from close range to give the visitors the lead. The goal exposed defensive lapses from Rise and Shine and handed Usuthu early control of the tie. Scoring first in a knockout match often shifts momentum and AmaZulu used that advantage to dictate the tempo in the opening stages.
Polokwane City responded by enjoying more possession as the first half progressed. However, they struggled to create clear scoring chances in the final third. AmaZulu remained organised at the back and limited the hosts to speculative efforts. The game shifted in the 32nd minute when Monty Batlhabane received a straight red card for a dangerous tackle on Liam Bern in midfield. The dismissal forced Polokwane to adjust their approach and focus on discipline and defensive structure.
Despite being a man down, Polokwane found a way back into the contest just before halftime. Rian Hanamub conceded a penalty after fouling Thabang Matuludi inside the area. Lebohang Nkaki stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Darren Johnson the wrong way. The equaliser lifted the home crowd and ensured the match remained finely balanced at 1-1 heading into the break. It also highlighted the unpredictable nature of the Nedbank Cup where momentum can swing quickly.
AmaZulu dominated possession in the second half and pushed forward in search of a winner. Polokwane defended deep with all ten players behind the ball and closed down spaces in their own half. Usuthu struggled to break through the compact defensive lines and clear chances were limited. Crosses into the box and attempts from range failed to trouble the Polokwane goalkeeper consistently. As regulation time ended with the score still level, extra time became necessary to separate the sides.
The decisive moment arrived in the 113th minute when Thando Ngwenya struck from distance. His effort took a deflection that wrong footed the goalkeeper and found the back of the net. The goal sealed a crucial 2-1 victory for AmaZulu FC and ended Polokwane City’s Nedbank Cup journey at the first hurdle. Usuthu showed persistence and mental strength to secure the late breakthrough. The win ensures AmaZulu join other top sides in the eagerly anticipated Last 16 draw scheduled for Wednesday, 11 February at 19h00.
AmaZulu FC now stand alongside Stellenbosch FC, Mamelodi Sundowns, Vasco da Gama, Orlando Pirates, Upington City, Sekhukhune United, Jacksa Spears, Casric Stars, Golden Arrows, TS Galaxy, University of Pretoria, Mkhambathi FC, Richards Bay FC and Milford FC in the next round. With several Premier Soccer League heavyweights still in the competition, the path to the Nedbank Cup final remains challenging. AmaZulu supporters will hope this gritty performance signals a strong cup run ahead.
