Kaizer Chiefs and AmaZulu played out to a 1-1 in the drama-filled MTN8 semi-final first-leg clash at FNB Stadium in Soweto on Sunday afternoon.
AmaZulu were the first side to threaten at goal.
Dumisani Zuma’s strike forced Itumeleng Khune to make two saves in the first minute of the game.
A few minutes later, Usuthu, looking lively in the opening exchanges scored the opening goal of the match through Gabadinho Mhango in the 14th minute.
The Malawian striker beat Khune with a nice finish to give AmaZulu the advantage.
The goal forced Chiefs to launch several attack and play offensively.
Ashley Du Preez had Amakhosi’s real first chance of the match in the 28th minute.
But it was easily dealt with by Usuthu goalkeeper Veli Mothwa.
Five minutes later, Du Preez had another chance to level matters for the Soweto giants, thanks to a beautiful pass from Siyethemba Sithebe.
However, he couldn’t unleash a shot.
Chiefs kept pushing for the goal and their fans thought their side had scored but Edmilson Dove’s long-range shot hit the side netting.
Dominating possession and the game, Chiefs continued to attack as Yusuf Maart called Mothwa to action with a cracker of a shot outside the box.
In the 40th minute, Du Preez once again missed a golden opportunity from close range, much to the frustration of the Amakhosi fans.
AmaZulu went into the break as the much happier side with a goal advantage.
In the second-half coach Arthur Zwane bolstered his attack as Keegan Dolly was introduced, replacing Siyethemba Sithebe.
In search of the equaliser, Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana missed a sitter in the 50th minute following a beautfiul passage of play by Chiefs.
USUTHU REDUCTED TO 10-MEN
Usuthu were reduced to 10-man as Veluyeke Zulu after receiving a second yellow card.
Chiefs‘ resilience finally paid off as substitute Dolly found the equalised for the club in the 60th minute of the game.
That proved to be the final goal of the game as both sides could not find the winner.
But just before the referee ended the heated encounter, there was drama on the side of the pitch.
Mhango, who was substituted and was now on the bench, was shown a straight red card after he seemingly uttered foul words to the match official.
After the final whistle, there was more drama as Usuthu players and technical staff members ran towards referee Victor Gomez to confront him for some of his decisions in the game.
Gomez had to be escorted by security guards to safety.
