AmaZulu ended a nine-game losing streak with a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday. Rally Bwalya scored the game’s only goal.
Usuthu are presently in the top eight of the Premiership rankings, trailing third-placed Kaizer Chiefs by only four points.
Bwalya maintained his impressive recovery from injury in the 31st minute as he scored the game-winning goal for the home team after a brilliant team play.
The Zambian’s powerful blast left Sage Stevens with no chance in goal.
Stellenbosch’s visit presented the perfect opportunity for AmaZulu head coach Folz to earn his first victory on South African soil, as he entered the match still seeking his maiden victory on the continent
AmaZulu have not lost to Stellenbosch since 2016, and their bolstered team gave them the ideal opportunity to stop their winless streak.
The most noteworthy alteration to the starting lineup that eliminated Chiefs from the MTN8 a week ago was the addition of Ethan Brooks in place of the injured Gabadinho Mhango.
Stellenbosch were unfazed by their lackluster record versus AmaZulu, as they lined up in their typical 4-3-3 configuration with the intention of taking the initiative.
Stellenbosch’s weak defense has been a major contributor to their defeats this season, and it was on display again as they succumbed after a promising start.
Romain Folz gets his first win as a coach in South Africa as AmaZulu defeat Stellenbosch courtesy of this wonderful goal from Rally Bwalya ✅ pic.twitter.com/KQkl6LpIic
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) October 30, 2022
Even after falling behind by a goal, Coach Steve Barker’s squad remained dangerous, registering seven shots on goal before halftime, of which three threatened AmaZulu goalie Veli Mothwa.
Due to the irregular nature of the league season, the standings are quite close. Stellenbosch started the game in tenth place, three points clear of Sekhukhune United, who were in the relegation zone.
Barker may have recognized the significance of entering the World Cup break on a high note and as far from the danger zone as possible when he substituted South African Under-23 international Antonio van Wyk in pursuit of an equalizer.
Folz responded by inserting Keagan Buchanan in midfield and then Veluyeke Zulu at the back, effectively securing their narrow victory.
In the day’s other matches, Chippa United and Richards Bay played to an interesting 3-3 tie, and TS Galaxy was unable to maintain a lead against Sekhukhune, resulting in a 1-1 draw.