Polokwane City stun AmaZulu in dramatic Betway Premiership opener

Despite falling behind early, Rise and Shine mounted a spirited comeback to secure all three points in injury time.

AmaZulu took the lead in the 30th minute when Etiosa Ighodaro headed home a pinpoint cross from Riaan Hanamub.

The KwaZulu-Natal side dominated the early exchanges, with strikers like Sede Dion and Rowan Human creating numerous chances.

However, Polokwane City responded just before the break. In first-half injury time, Bulelani Nikani levelled the score with a powerful header from Cole Alexander's well-placed free kick.

The goal shifted momentum in favour of the home side, setting up a tense second half.

AmaZulu nearly reclaimed the lead when Human's shot struck the post, and Abbubaker Mobara's long-range effort narrowly missed the target in the 79th minute.

But a costly mistake from AmaZulu goalkeeper Veli Mothwa in stoppage time proved decisive. Mothwa's error allowed Polokwane's Tholo Matuludi to pounce, scoring the winning goal and sealing a dramatic victory.

Polokwane City now look ahead to their next fixture against Magesi FC on 21 September, while AmaZulu will aim to bounce back when they host Kaizer Chiefs on 25 September. 

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