AmaZulu Edge out Royal AM in Last-Gasp Victory in Nedbank Cup Clash

AmaZulu secured a thrilling victory in the Nedbank Cup, defeating Royal AM with a last-minute goal in a tense clash at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Thursday evening. The match, characterized by strategic formations and intense play, saw Pablo Franco Martin’s AmaZulu facing off against KwaZulu-Natal rivals Royal AM.

Both teams made key changes to their lineups, with players like Riaan Hanamub, Mbongeni Gumede, and Ethan Brooks featuring for AmaZulu, while Siphesihle Msomi stepped in for the suspended Mzwandile Dlamini in the Royal AM lineup.

The game kicked off with AmaZulu creating early scoring opportunities through the likes of Augustine Kwem and Tshepang Moremi, but it was Royal AM’s Hugo Nyame who showcased his skills with crucial saves to keep the match level.

AmaZulu continued to apply pressure on Royal AM, with Ben Motshwari threatening Nyame’s goal from outside the box. The first half ended with missed chances from both sides, including a close header from Wayde Jooste that sailed wide.

The second half saw a more open game, with both teams pushing for the breakthrough. AmaZulu’s Tshepang Moremi found himself clear on goal but was brought down just outside the box, leading to a yellow card for the Royal AM defender.

In the final minutes of the match, AmaZulu’s attacking changes, including the introduction of Junior Dion and Hendrick Ekstein, paid off as Ekstein netted a decisive goal to secure the victory for Usuthu.

The intense clash between AmaZulu and Royal AM showcased strong defensive displays from players like Olwethu Mzimela and Taariq Fielies, while the attacking prowess of Thwili Twala’s side was evident in their counter-attacking threats throughout the game.

With this hard-fought win, AmaZulu progresses to the round of 16 in the Nedbank Cup, setting the stage for more thrilling encounters in the tournament.