Hotto strike helps Pirates dump AmaZulu out of Nedbank Cup

Orlando Pirates overcame their first hurdle in the Nedbank Cup with a deserved 1-0 win over AmaZulu in the Round of 32 at the Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

The Sea Robbers made a number of changes to their starting lineup from the sides' last meeting on December 23 with Kwanda Mngonyama, Innocent Maela, Ntsikelelo Nyauza and Ben Motshwari being replaced by Olisa Ndah, Happy Jele, Paseka Mako and Thabang Monare respectively.

Meanwhile, Benni McCarthy made four alterations as Sandile Khumalo, Repo Malepa, Augustine Mulenga and Mattar Ceesay came into the starting XI for Thabo Qalinge, Thembela Sikhakhane, Samkelo Mgwazela and Philani Zulu.

Pirates had the first attempt on goal with two minutes gone in the clash when Kwame Peprah rose highest to meet Deon Hotto's cross but his effort was saved by Usuthu shot-stopper Veli Mothwa.

The Buccanneers threatened again soon afterwards.

It was again Hotto who provided the delivery from a corner.

Mothwa came off his line but missed the ball and it came to Goodman Mosele at the back post.

His close-range header went inches wide as a glorious opportunity was wasted.

Bucs were making all of the play and Thembinkosi Lorch was having a significant impact on proceedings.

He made inroads down the left flank and Mosele and Hotto combined to set up Ntsako Makhubela, but the former Golden Arrows man made a hash of the finish.

The hosts won a free-kick on the edge of the box in the 42nd minute after Makhubela was brought down and Hotto stepped up but curled his effort over the wall and comfortably over the bar.

Pirates deservedly took the lead in the 53rd minute.

Hotto received a short corner on the left and cut into the centre before playing a one-two with Monare, who flicked it beyond the AmaZulu