AmaZulu made a strong statement in the Nedbank Cup, securing a 5-1 victory over Mighty Eagles at King Zwelithini Stadium during their Round of 32 match on Tuesday night.
This win advances Usuthu to the Round of 16, providing a much-needed recovery after their recent heavy defeat to Stellenbosch in the Betway Premiership.
The first half was dominated by AmaZulu, with Sandile Mthethwa marking his first start for the club by scoring the opening goal in the 10th minute.
From that point on, it was a one-sided affair as Mlondi Mbanjwa extended the lead to 2-0 in the 20th minute, with Usuthu maintaining control of possession and play against their ABC Motsepe League opponents.
Striker Etiosa Ighodaro added to the tally just 11 minutes later, capitalizing on a defensive lapse from Mighty Eagles in the penalty area.
As the first half came to a close, the visitors struggled to make an impact, and AmaZulu went into halftime with a comfortable 3-0 lead.
In the second half, Mighty Eagles showed some resilience and managed to score when Awonke Mahlabela found the net in the 68th minute.
However, their celebration was short-lived as Mthethwa quickly netted his second goal. He completed his hat trick in the 87th minute after Hendrick Ekstein was fouled in the box, converting the penalty with ease.
AmaZulu (3) 5 (Mthethwa 10’ 80’, 87’ (P), Mbanjwa 20’, Ighodaro 31’)
Mighty Eagles (0) 1 (Mahlabela 68’)
