Casric edge AmaZulu claim another giant-killing scalp

Casric Stars © Backpagepix

Casric Stars continued their remarkable giant-killing run in the Nedbank Cup, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory over AmaZulu FC after extra-time in the quarterfinals at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday afternoon.

The win saw the Believers progress to the semifinals for the first time, after pulling off another shocking win, having eliminated Orlando Pirates in the previous round. Coach Bucs Mthombeni's promotion-seeking side will take on University of Pretoria in the Motsepe Foundation Championship on March 11.

Usuthu, on the other hand, were left to rue their missed chances as they bowed out of the South African FA Cup. It is back to the drawing board for coach Arthur Zwane and his charges, with the KwaZulu-Natal giants scheduled to face Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership on March 14.

The Believers made the perfect start by breaking the deadlock in the 12th minute when former PSL Premiership duo Leletu Skelem and Mfundo Thikazi combined brilliantly. Skelem delivered a delightful pass for Thikazi, who hit the back of the net and Casric took a 1-0 lead into the interval.

Usuthu emerged rejuvenated after their halftime team talk from Zwane and equalised in the 49th minute. Athini Maqokolo provided a precise setup for Hendrick Ekstein, who scored his sixth goal of the season and second in the Nedbank Cup to level the score at 1-1.

However, the Believers stood firm and weathered the late pressure, holding on for a 1-1 draw after regulation time and extra-time followed. Decide Chauke came off the bench to prove to be the ultimate super-sub, netting the decisive goal in the 115th minute to secure a 2-1 win for Casric over AmaZulu.

AmaZulu (0) (1) 1 (Ekstein 49')

Casric (1) (1) 2 (Thikazi 12', Chauke 115')

AmaZulu: Johnson (Ofori 34'), Radebe (Sithole 60'), Hanamub, Mthethwa, Fielies, Dube, Mhlongo, Hlangabeza (Slatsha 60', Mbanjwa 80'), Mashigo (Kambindu 80'), Maqokolo, Ekstein.

Casric: Mthombeni, Mofokeng, Lekhatla, Mtshweni, Milio, Thikazi (Marebane 46'), Meveni, Skelem (Chauke 46'), Makua, Rakwena (Zwane 75'), Nana (Mogale 75').

© Backpage TXT