Matlhoko’s Late Finish Hands AmaZulu Victory Over Polokwane

Bonginkosi Dlamini of Polokwane City fouled by Nkosikhona Radebe of AmaZulu during the Betway Premiership 2025/26 match between Polokwane City and Amazulu at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on 21 March 2026 ©Alche Greeff/BackpagePix

AmaZulu FC clinched a 1-0 win over Polokwane City at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, with Thapelo Matlhoko netting the decisive goal late on.

The match began evenly, with both sides creating chances but lacking a clinical edge. Polokwane came closest in the first half when Juan Mutudza struck the crossbar from a direct free kick, while AmaZulu goalkeeper Olwethu Mzimela made key saves to keep the hosts at bay.

AmaZulu also threatened, with efforts from Hendrick Ekstein and Taariq Fielies, but the sides went into the break goalless.

Polokwane looked the more dangerous side after half-time, forcing several saves from Mzimela and creating pressure through Bonginkosi Dlamini and Mokibelo Ramabu.

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However, the breakthrough came at the other end in the 87th minute. Substitute Thapelo Matlhoko reacted quickest in the box to turn home a cross from Riaan Hanamub, scoring from close range to give AmaZulu the lead.

Polokwane pushed forward late on but could not find an equaliser, as AmaZulu’s defence held firm to see out the win.

The victory moved AmaZulu up to third on 37 points after 22 matches, while Polokwane City stayed seventh with 30 points.