Ekstein strike sends AmaZulu into Nedbank Cup quarter-finals

A clinical second-half strike from veteran Hendrick Ekstein was enough to secure AmaZulu FC a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Richards Bay FC on Friday night, earning Usuthu a spot in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals.

In a cagey KwaZulu-Natal derby at Richards Bay Stadium, both sides struggled for rhythm in a first half dominated by defensive discipline and a string of injuries. Richards Bay’s Ian Otieno and Thulani Gumede both required medical attention during a scoreless opening 45 minutes, though Gumede did test Darren Johnson from range in the 10th minute.

The Breakthrough for AmaZulu in the first Nedbank Cup Last 32 tie

The deadlock was finally broken in the 54th minute of the Nedbank Cup tie. After a period of sustained pressure from the visitors, Hendrick Ekstein found space on the right side of the six-yard box. The playmaker made no mistake, slotting a left-footed shot into the bottom left corner to give AmaZulu the lead.

Richards Bay head coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi introduced Knox Mutizwa and Wandile Ngema in an attempt to salvage the tie. The home side threw everything at AmaZulu in the closing stages:

61st minute: Simphiwe Mcineka saw his header blocked following a pinpoint Sanele Barns cross.

83rd minute: Darren Johnson produced a world-class save to deny Mcineka from point-blank range.

90th minute: Defender Sbangani Zulu had a golden opportunity to force extra time, but his header from the centre of the box flew over the bar.

Usuthu’s defensive unit, led by Taariq Fielies and Sandile Mthethwa, remained resolute despite mounting pressure. Goalkeeper Darren Johnson, who was cautioned for time-taking in the 75th minute, proved the hero with several key interventions to preserve the clean sheet.

AmaZulu now join the Last 8 of the Nedbank Cup competition, while Richards Bay will shift their focus back to their survival battle in the Betway Premiership.