Siyanda Hlangabeza's return boosts AmaZulu's midfield

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane believes the club’s decision to loan out midfielder Siyanda Hlangabeza has paid off handsomely, with the youngster already making an impression on his return to the senior team.

Hlangabeza, 22, spent last season at Durban City in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where he played a key role in their fairytale promotion campaign under coach Simo Dladla. 

Usuthu recalled him at the start of the new term, and he has wasted no time showing his value.

The midfielder has already walked away with two Player-of-the-Match awards, both in narrow 1-0 victories against Orbit College and Marumo Gallants.

“With Hlangabeza, I’m sure people now see why we sometimes loan out players. We don’t just loan out a player for the sake of it, but we loan them out for a reason,” Zwane said.

“I think Hlangabeza played at least 21 games for Durban City last season under coach Simo [who’s now Usuthu’s assistant coach] and they gained promotion … he has returned with experience and that winning mentality. He was very instrumental in Durban’s promotion.”

While Zwane is encouraged by the midfielder’s growth, he maintains that Hlangabeza still has more levels to reach.

“Yes, the NFD level isn’t the same as the Premiership level, hence he sometimes makes some elementary mistakes, but the most important thing is that he has grown. I believe he can do more at this level,” Zwane added.

AmaZulu’s early-season form has been built on a solid defensive foundation. 

Zwane’s side has managed two clean sheets in three matches, with the only blemish coming in their 2-0 defeat to perennial champions Mamelodi Sundowns away from home nearly a fortnight ago.

“I think the defence deserves credit. They have worked very hard, keeping two clean sheets in our two home games so far. We still have to polish and sharpen our finishing,” Zwane noted.

Usuthu edged Marumo Gallants last Wednesday, thanks to a Keegan Allan strike at Princess Magogo Stadium, a venue that has become a fortress in KwaMashu. 

The decision to return to the township ground has reconnected the club with its loyal supporters, who have embraced the team’s efforts in large numbers.

Next up for AmaZulu is a tricky away fixture against Sekhukhune United at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Wednesday. 

Having shown resilience in the opening weeks of the Betway Premiership season, Zwane’s men will be eager to build on their momentum — and Hlangabeza’s rise could yet prove central to their ambitions.