DELMAS – Sihappy S'ngaphezulu FC strengthened their Victor Khanye Local Football Association (VKLFA) Promotional League title challenge after coming from behind to defeat Zation City FC 2-1 at Riverside on Sunday, 05 July 2026.
Both sides struggled to create clear scoring opportunities during a tactical first half, which ended goalless.
Zation City coach Moeketsi Khoetsa said the match was evenly contested before opening up after the break.
"The game was good. The first half ended 0-0 and it was very tactical. We were locking horns," Khoetsa told Highveld Chronicle.
Khoetsa said his side increased the pressure in the second half but were punished on the counter-attack.
"We started attacking them repeatedly, but they kept breaking on the counter. Eventually they scored from one of those counter-attacks."
Zation City responded through captain Ndondo, who converted a free kick after a handball decision.
"We wanted to get the winner and kept pushing, but in the dying minutes we made a defensive mistake during another counter-attack and they scored the winning goal. That's how we lost 2-1."
Sihappy S'ngaphezulu FC coach Bahlezi Mahlangu credited his players' mentality and determination for securing the victory.
"I feel the boys' mental strength, hunger and willingness were the only difference in today's game," Mahlangu told Highveld Chronicle.
Despite claiming all three points, Mahlangu admitted he was not entirely satisfied with his team's overall performance.
"To be quite honest, the result is not a true reflection of how the game went. It was an unsatisfying performance from the boys."
Mahlangu said his plan was to score early and unsettle Zation City, but their opponents' possession-based approach frustrated his side during the opening half.
"As we move towards the end of the season, I told the boys to get an early goal, but our opponents' plan to keep the ball away from us worked and the first half ended goalless."
He said he reminded his players at half-time to return to their own possession-based style, which helped them score twice and secure maximum points.
"It was a collective effort. The boys kept encouraging one another, which showed how hungry they are to earn SAB League status."
Mahlangu admitted there is still room for improvement in both attack and defence but singled out goalkeeper and captain Sphamandla for several crucial saves.
"We had to dig deep. Mental fortitude won us the game because we all knew what was at stake."
Thabo Mahlangu scored Sihappy S'ngaphezulu FC's equaliser before Ntando Masilo netted the winner, with both goals coming in the second half.
Mahlangu said the squad remains determined to win the league title despite several key players being away at initiation school.
"The boys said they don't want to squander the league after so many setbacks. They believe the best welcome-back present for those players would be winning the league title."
