AmaZulu eye third straight win as Polokwane visit Durban

AmaZulu will look to stretch their winning run to three matches when they welcome Polokwane City to the Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday at 7:30pm.

Under coach Arthur Zwane, Usuthu appear to have hit their stride after a mixed start to the Betway Premiership campaign. The Durban club followed up a narrow win over Durban City with an emphatic 3-0 triumph over Chippa United on Saturday — a result that lifted them to fifth place on the log after ten matches.

Zwane’s side has shown steady improvement in recent weeks, combining composure at the back with greater fluidity going forward. The coach has spoken repeatedly about the need for consistency and momentum. AmaZulu’s current run suggests they are beginning to find both.

In midfield, the experience and vision of Pule Ekstein will be central once again, alongside the energetic Siyanda Hlangabeza, who has provided balance and bite in the middle of the park.  The pair have been key in controlling possession and driving transitions — an area where AmaZulu have often struggled in previous seasons.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old winger Athini Maqokolo has emerged as one of Zwane’s most exciting attacking options, scoring twice in his last three matches. 

His pace, directness and growing confidence in front of goal have added a new dimension to Usuthu’s forward play. Up front, Thabiso Kutumela has been tasked with leading the line, using his sharp movement and experience to stretch defences and link play.

For AmaZulu, victory would not only make it three on the bounce but also keep them within touching distance of the CAF qualification spots. 

Zwane has made it clear that his team are aiming high this season — and to do that, consistency at home will be crucial.

Their visitors, Polokwane City, travel to Durban with their own motivation but a form slump to address. 

Head coach Phuthi Mohafe has seen his side go three games without a win, losing twice and drawing once, and will be desperate for a result to halt the slide.

Rise and Shine remain in eighth position, just two points behind AmaZulu, meaning a win could see them leapfrog their hosts. While recent results haven’t gone their way, Polokwane have shown plenty of industry and tactical discipline — qualities Mohafe will rely on as they look to frustrate Zwane’s in-form team.

With both clubs eyeing the top half of the table and looking to build momentum, Tuesday’s clash at Princess Magogo Stadium promises to be closely contested. 

AmaZulu will hope their newfound rhythm holds firm; Polokwane, meanwhile, will be out to prove they can rediscover their early-season spark.