AmaZulu Reach Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup Final After Beating Njampela

AmaZulu advanced to the final of the Prince Mangosuthu Legacy Cup after securing a 2–1 victory over Njampela at the Prince Mangosuthu Regional Stadium on Sunday.

On a rain-soaked day in Ulundi, with the pitch waterlogged and conditions almost unplayable, Usuthu managed the situation well, scoring twice in quick succession in the first half.

Despite the dreadful conditions — with heavy rain falling throughout the night and continuing into the day — the tournament proceeded as scheduled.

Njampela, who won the tournament last year after defeating Royal AM, opened the scoring through Sbongiseni Mdluli to give the Zululand District side the lead.

However, AmaZulu responded, equalising through Tebogo Mashego.

Usuthu then took the lead for the first time when Elmo Kambindu — the Namibian striker who has struggled with injuries this season — found the back of the net.

The match also saw Liam Bern feature for the first time under AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane, following the withdrawal of Cape Town Spurs’ appeal at the SAFA Appeals Board.

Njampela had an opportunity to level matters in the 76th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Lungelo Vilani blasted his spot-kick over the crossbar.

From there, goalkeeper Olwethu Mzimela became the hero for AmaZulu, making several outstanding saves late in the match to keep Njampela at bay.

Usuthu will now face the winner between Richards Bay and Eswatini’s Nsingizini Hotspurs, who are contesting the other semi-final at the venue named after struggle icon Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who passed away in 2023.

The final is scheduled to kick off at 16:00 at the same venue.

Picture courtesy of Sabelo Mngoma