Head Coach Benni McCarthy insists his side will not just "make up the numbers" in their maiden CAF Champions League campaign after a historic 1-0 win over Horoya AC on Friday.
Luvuyo Memela made history for Usuthu as his first-half strike proved decisive in his side clinching their first-ever continental victory.
McCarthy confidently announced that his side would now set their sights on the bigger prize of advancing from Group B after Friday's win at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
"I want to congratulate my players on a splendid performance," McCarthy said post-match.
Scroll through the gallery to see the highest-ranked clubs in Africa
"Horoya brought the fight to us because they're seasoned campaigners and have an intimidation factor.
"But once we got our foot on the ball, we remained calm, moved the ball across the pitch and got Augustine Mulenga and Luvuyo Memela into pockets of spaces that hurt them, while making them chase.
"I think if you're a football lover and you don't like what AmaZulu did today then I don't know, maybe you should watch the Winter Olympics or something.
"My team was very good, organised, didn't give much away today and it's a pity we didn't score more than the one goal.
"I think there were opportunities especially when you get such a performance from Mulenga, you would like for him to cap it off with a goal."
McCarthy then stated his side's ambitions for the rest of the tournament after their encouraging display.
"Overall it was well deserved, and I think we finally staked our claim to not just being novices in this competition or here to fill up the numbers," McCarthy added.
"Our intentions are, and yes we know it will be extremely difficult, and most won't give us a chance. But I think we have as good of a chance as anybody to get out of the group stages.
"While surprising many because there's loads of room for growth in this team."