Five-time Africa champions TP Mazembe were held to a goalless draw by Amazulu on Friday afternoon, in the first leg of their CAF Champions League’s round of 32 tie.
It was an evenly contested affair in the opening exchanges, with both sides seeing a bit of the ball, although chances were hard to come by.
That proved to be the theme for the opening 30 minutes, with the only bit of entertainment coming from Mazembe’s Baleke with his skillful touches.
The first effort of the half arrived in the 38th minute courtesy of Mayombo long range strike, which Veli Mothwa was equal to.
Amazulu nearly broke the deadlock a minute later when Maduna played a fine pass for Agustine Mulenga, but the striker dragged his effort just wide of the mark.
Mazembe were presented with a chance late in the half but Sandile Khumalo did well to clear away Bela’s goal-bound effort, with Mothwa well beaten.
Mothwa was called into action after the hour-mark, as he pulled off two saves to deny Zemanga in quick succession.
Franck Dumas was looking for the go-ahead goal and introduced the likes of Kinzumbi and Bossu in the 64th minute, while McCarthy introduced Luvuyo Memela and Thabo Qalinge as well.
Mazembe were presented with another chance in the 70th minute, but Ochaya managed head over from close range.
Mounkoro came to Mazembe’ rescue in the 78th minute, as he pulled off a fine reaction stop to deny Memela from six-yards out.
Mazembe failed to bypass the stubborn Usuthu defence in the remaining stages, with Isamma being denied by Mothwa in stoppage time as they managed to keep a clean sheet ahead of return leg game in Lubumbashi next weekend.
