Amazababa FC rallied in the second half to claim a 5-3 victory over Uhuru Sporting.  

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In a thrilling Brakpan Super League clash between Uhuru Sporting FC and Amazababa, fans were treated to an emotional rollercoaster that ended in a dramatic 5–3 victory for Amazababa.

While Uhuru dominated much of the first half, it was Amazababa’s second-half resurgence that ultimately sealed the win.

Uhuru Sporting showed early promise, with coach Thokozani Madonsela praising his side’s performance in the opening 45 minutes.

“We were in charge for most of the first half, and things were looking good for us,” Madonsela reflected.

However, despite their strong start, a crucial goal conceded shifted the momentum of the match. Madonsela noted that individual errors including a player being booked disrupted their rhythm.

“It’s something we can fix. We need to improve our decision-making and communication, particularly along the back line.

“Scoring more goals and staying organised under pressure are now key focus areas in training,” he added.

Madonsela also expressed frustration over several contentious refereeing decisions, which he felt hindered the team’s flow.

“There were two or three calls by the referee that didn’t go our way. It was frustrating and broke our rhythm,” he said.

Despite those challenges, Madonsela applauded his players’ overall effort.

“My boys played well, and we had control. But a few mistakes and the officiating cost us the game,” he concluded.

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The second half told a very different story. Amazababa FC returned to the pitch with renewed intensity, exploiting defensive gaps in the Uhuru line and capitalising on the shift in momentum.

“We wanted the win badly, so the loss stings. But we’re still in the race for the league title. This loss is a setback, but there are games left, and we’ll come back stronger,” said Madonsela.

Amazababa FC coach Sizwe Nyalunga credited halftime adjustments and key substitutions for the stunning comeback.

“The first half was tough. Uhuru had the lead, and we made mistakes early on. Our defence lacked energy, the midfield couldn’t hold possession, and our striker wasn’t getting enough supply,” Nyalunga explained.

Strategic changes before the break turned the game around.

“We substituted key players, and it immediately lifted our energy. After that, we scored our first goal and carried that momentum into the second half,” he said.

What followed was an explosive second half, with Amazababa scoring four unanswered goals in rapid succession.

“We came back stronger and delivered an action-packed second half. Scoring four goals back-to-back shows what my team is capable of,” Nyalunga said proudly.

Despite the win, he acknowledged a lingering challenge.

“Many of my players are in Grade 11 and 12 and currently writing exams. That affects attendance and full participation in training. But all things considered, I’m proud we got the result,” he said.

Team chairperson Jomo Mpinga shared a heartfelt perspective on his commitment to youth development through sport.

“I’ve been with this team for a very long time. I believe in what we’re doing, and I’ve made it my mission to support these young players,” said Mpinga.

He continued, “Whether it’s football, cricket, or athletics—I believe sport can guide our youth.” Mpinga also shared a personal story about his eldest son, who is currently serving a prison sentence.

“I blame myself sometimes. Maybe I didn’t guide him well enough. But I still have hope he’ll return and build a better life through the power of sport,” he said.

He expressed concern about the lack of support many young people face, and the vital role sports can play in providing direction and purpose.

“I don’t want to see another young person end up in prison because no one was there to guide them. That’s why I’m fighting, even when it causes conflict at home.

“People say I’ve neglected myself and my relationships for the team, but this is bigger than me. I’m planting something that I hope will grow into real change. In the end, it’s about giving kids purpose,” Mpinga concluded.