AmaZulu FC have been knocked out of the 2026 Carling Knockout Cup following a dramatic 2-1 defeat against Stellenbosch FC at the Danie Craven Stadium on Sunday evening.
Usuthu entered the quarter-final encounter hoping to continue their impressive run of form, but a late penalty ended their hopes of reaching the semi-finals. Stellenbosch opened the scoring through Chumani Butsaka in the 28th minute, but AmaZulu responded almost immediately to bring the sides level.
The match remained evenly contested as both teams searched for a winner, with extra time looking increasingly likely.
However, the decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Stellenbosch were awarded a penalty following a handball in the box.
Sinoxolo Kwayiba stepped up and converted in the 97th minute to hand the hosts a dramatic victory.
The result brings AmaZulu’s impressive run in the competition to an end and denies them an opportunity to compete for another major trophy.
Stellenbosch will now host Orlando Pirates in the semi-finals, while AmaZulu must turn their attention back to their Betway Premiership campaign.
For Arthur Zwane’s side, the challenge will be to recover from this disappointment and maintain their strong domestic form.