Arthur Zwane praises mentality shift as AmaZulu finally overcome TS Galaxy hurdle

Arthur Zwane admitted AmaZulu had to dig deep both mentally and tactically to finally overcome a TS Galaxy side that has repeatedly troubled them in recent seasons.

Usuthu came from behind twice to secure a dramatic victory, a result that not only delivered maximum points at home but also marked a psychological breakthrough against an opponent that had often had the upper hand.

“It has been very difficult for us to beat TS Galaxy over the years so we needed to make sure that this one, we get maximum points and what a way for us to do it as well,” Zwane said.

The contest was another test of AmaZulu’s resilience after they were forced to chase the game on home soil. 

For Zwane, the response was as important as the result, particularly in how his players handled adversity.

“We showed character but we just need to change our mindset and mentality because you can’t concede a goal at home and put your head down. We had to lift them up and make them believe we can come back,” he explained.

AmaZulu’s response was driven largely by their bench, with Zimbabwean-born striker Thandolwenhkosi Ngwenya turning the match on its head after being introduced in the final twenty-two minutes. 

The 23-year-old produced a remarkable cameo, scoring twice and providing an assist to earn the Player-of-the-Match award.

Ngwenya’s brace took his goal involvements to seven in the league this season, underlining his growing influence despite not starting the match.

His impact was no accident, according to Zwane, who revealed the substitution was part of a calculated plan.

“We needed to be smart about them because we knew the travelling and the game midweek would affect them and they would die at some point in terms of energy levels so we needed to have something in the pocket in the last thirty minutes of the game,” Zwane said.

The introduction of Ngwenya not only shifted the momentum but also brought the best out of those around him, particularly Athini Maqokola, who was also involved in all three goals as AmaZulu surged late on.

“And when Ngwenya came in, he did exactly that and also helped Athini come alive as well because they were both involved in all the goals,” Zwane added.

Beyond the individual brilliance, the coach was encouraged by the collective belief shown by his side, especially after conceding. 

The performance reflected a team growing in confidence and learning to manage difficult moments without losing structure or intent.

For AmaZulu, the victory represented more than just three points. 

It was a reminder of the importance of depth, game management and mentality in the Betway Premiership, where margins are often decided late.

Zwane will take heart from both the performance and the response, knowing that while consistency remains the target, nights like these can define a season — particularly against opponents who once had their number.