AmaZulu came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 with DStv Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns on Wednesday night.
Masandawana were without Mothobi Mvala, Grant Kekana and Cassius Mailula through various injuries and illnesses amongst other matters as the returned to domestic action.
AmaZulu, who are fresh from a much-needed victory over Sekhukhune United, were desperate to settle first but the Brazilians held their lines through strong tackling from a certain Terrence Mashego.
The title holders regained some courage after a pretty tough opening and started to pose threats to their counterparts where Haashim Domingo received space outside the area and slammed over.
Sundowns remained buoyant in their forward play and were rewarded four minutes before the half-hour mark after Bongani Zungu grabbed a pass from Gaston Sirino and finished with aplomb into the far corner.
Usuthu desperately looked to draw level shortly thereafter, but the Brazilians dropped deep and managed to clear their lines.
Following the start of the second half, Usuthu's interim coach Ayanda Dlamini brought on Sede Dion and sacrificed former Kaizer Chiefs man Dumisani Zuma.
The host were on the up again five minutes after halftime and were denied the equaliser as a goal-line clearance kept out Rally Bwalya's first-time shot in the area.
At the other end, Sundowns proved more decisive and bagged a second 12 minutes from the break when Peter Shalulile picked up a low pass from Lebohang Maboe and fired in his 12th of the season.
Usuthu pulled one back midway through the second period as Ramahlwe Mphahlele leaped onto a long throw-in and nodded in the far corner.
The goal inspired the host and with five minutes to play they levelled after Dion played a one-two outside the area and applied a delightful bottom-corner finish.
Sundowns pushed to regain their dominance ahead of the closing minutes, but couldn't get a look in and 2-2 it finished.
Confirmed line-ups:
AmaZulu: February, Sikhakhane, Hanamub, Mphahlele, Mobara, Malepe, Bwalya, Maluleka, Ntuli, Brooks, Zuma
Subs: Mzimela, Kunene, Gumede, Khumalo, Buchanan, Mabiliso, Kwem, Majoro, Dion
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Mashego, De Reuck, Lebusa, Zungu, Nkosi, Maboe, Domingo, Zwane, Sirino, Shalulile.
Subs: Pieterse, Boutouil, Mudau, Ngobeni, Coetzee, Modiba, Mokoena, Ralani, Kutumela.
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