AmaZulu have booked their place in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Kruger United on Sunday.

Hendrick Ekstein proved to be the difference between the two sides, converting a 78th-minute penalty to send Usuthu into the last eight of the competition.

The encounter was closely contested, with both teams looking to secure progression to the quarter-finals. However, neither side managed to find the breakthrough during the opening stages, leaving the match finely balanced as the second half progressed.

With the possibility of extra time approaching, AmaZulu continued their pursuit of a decisive goal. Their persistence eventually paid off in the 78th minute when they were awarded a penalty.

Ekstein stepped up and converted from the spot, handing AmaZulu a crucial late lead and putting them within touching distance of qualification.

Kruger United were left with limited time to respond after conceding, while AmaZulu focused on protecting their advantage during the closing stages.

The KwaZulu-Natal outfit held on to their lead until the final whistle, confirming their progression to the quarter-finals at the expense of Kruger United.

The result represents an important step for AmaZulu in their pursuit of the Carling Knockout Cup trophy. With the competition moving into the quarter-final stage, the club will now turn its attention to the next challenge.

For Kruger United, the defeat brings their cup campaign to an end, despite their efforts to keep AmaZulu at bay for much of the encounter.

Ekstein's late penalty ultimately settled the contest, ensuring that AmaZulu advanced with a 1-0 victory.

Usuthu will now await the outcome of the remaining last-16 fixtures to discover their potential opponents in the quarter-finals as they continue their bid for cup success.

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