Tshikhudini FC booked a place in the quarterfinal stage of the Dr NE Nangammbi Soccer Tournament by beating Tshamutavha Hot Sand 2-1 in their preliminary-round match at the Muraga grounds on Sunday.

Realizing that they were not fit enough to stand the pressure for 90 minutes, Tshikhudini decided to make use of the opening minutes fruitfully. They approached the game aggressively, with their midfielders distributing some telling passes to the strikers time after time. It took them only nine minutes to score their first goal. They were awarded a corner, which came after a scramble within the box. Khathutshelo Singo took the corner and Khuliso Sioga headed home.

The referee, Mr Olani Kwinda, warned Vhahangwele Mabadahanye of Hot Sand with a card after a late tackle on Khuliso Sioga in the 19th minute. Mabadahanye continued to demonstrate his rough skills despite the fact that his name was already in the referee’s book. Instead of giving him his marching orders, Kwinda gave him a verbal warning.

Tshikhudini’s original stamina vanished as the proceedings for the first half came to an end. At that stage, Hot Sand were gaining momentum. Hot Sand found the equalizer three minutes before the half time whistle. Pfano Mathada was on target with a long-range volley. The keeper of Tshikhudini, Shonisani Mukondeleli, palmed the ball back into the net while trying to clear.

Hot Sand were reduced to 10 men later in the game. Lutendo Ndou saw red for obstructing Mveledzo Makungo just outside the box. Tshikhudini capitalized on the setback to score their winning goal in the 78th minute.

Mveledzo Makungo scored with a header after the keeper fumbled with the ball. Tshikhudini played defensive football for the remaining part of the game.