Watch: Themba Zwane scores first goal of 2021/22 DStv Premiership season

Themba Zwane scored from the penalty spot as Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off the defence of their DStv Premiership title with a 1-0 win over AmaZulu at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Friday.

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In what was a battle of the top two sides in the league last season, both teams looked undercooked in the season opener.

Themba Zwane, last season’s Player of the Year, did not have to wait long to open his account this campaign after Usuthu defender Thembela Sikhakhane fouled Peter Shalulile in the box on the stroke of half-time.

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Themba Zwane stepped up and sent AmaZulu goalkeeper Veli Mothwa the wrong way.

AmaZulu should have been level in the 68th minute when Lehlohonolo Majoro looked for all money that he would score, but his effort from close-range was brilliantly blocked on the goal line by Mamelodi Sundowns defender Rushine De Reuck.

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Masadawana then shut up shop and saw out the final 20 or so minutes to claim all three points to start the new campaign in perfect fashion.

Mamelodi Sundowns will next be in action against Chippa United on Tuesday, 24 August at 17:00, while AmaZulu will host Swallows the following day at the same time.

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HT | Sundowns 1-0 AmaZulu

It's advantage Sundowns after the first 45 minutes. Themba Zwane converted a penalty on the stroke of halftime to hand his side the lead.

Stream live: https://t.co/0BMWdeEYT3 | #DStvPrem

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) August 20, 2021