Elmo Kambindu energy and physicality could be central for AmaZulu in unsettling a Stellenbosch defence that’s shown much resilience. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
There are wounds that time hasn’t quite healed — and for AmaZulu, one such scar leads straight back to January, when Stellenbosch FC humiliated them with a ruthless 5-0 thrashing in Umlazi.
On Tuesday evening, at the Danie Craven Stadium, Usuthu are expected to have one thing on their mind: Payback.
The fixture, set for a 7.30pm kick-off, has layers beyond revenge. For Arthur Zwane’s charges, this is also about momentum and salvaging pride as the Betway Premiership season nears its close.
That first-round embarrassment wasn't just a heavy defeat — it marked one of the lowest points in AmaZulu’s campaign, a stark reminder of their inconsistencies and fragility under pressure. But since that painful night, there have been signs of renewal.
AmaZulu edged Richards Bay 1-0 in their last league outing, with Taariq Fielies’ goal lifting spirits and halting a miserable run that had seen them collect just a solitary point from four matches.
Currently seventh on the log, Usuthu are firmly in the hunt for a Top 8 finish — and, with a mathematical chance, maybe even a push for CAF qualification if results elsewhere swing their way. Still, standing in their path is a Stellenbosch outfit riding the crest of a continental wave.
The Cape Winelands side comes into this clash fresh off arguably the biggest result in their short history — a stunning away victory over Egyptian giants Zamalek in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Sihle Nduli’s composed finish in Cairo last Wednesday not only silenced the White Knights but also secured a historic aggregate win, sending Stellies into the semifinals of a continental competition for the first time.
Domestically, however, they’ll be looking to bounce back after a 1-0 defeat to Magesi FC in late March, a result that ended a seven-match unbeaten league run. Even so, they remain fifth on the table with games in hand — and very much in control of their top-four destiny.
A versatile and determined forward, Devin Titus will look to lead Stellenbosch to a midweek home win over AmaZulu. The 23-year-old is a rising star in South African football and is set to feature strongly as Stellies chase their ambitions both at home and abroad.
His pace, movement and eye for goal have made him a key figure in Steve Barker’s plans — and someone Usuthu will need to keep close tabs on.
To match Stellenbosch’s intensity, AmaZulu will need to bring both structure and bite. Elmo Kambindu’s energy and physicality could be central in unsettling a Stellies defence that’s shown resilience both at home and on the continent.
Historically, there’s little to separate the sides. In 11 league meetings since 2019, Usuthu hold a slight edge with four wins to Stellenbosch’s three, alongside three draws. But the 5-0 drubbing in Durban still hangs heavy.
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