Kaizer Chiefs returned to winning ways with a narrow 1-0 victory over Magesi FC in the Betway Premiership at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday evening. After suffering back-to-back defeats, Amakhosi needed a strong response, and they delivered—albeit in a tense and challenging encounter.
Du Preez the Difference Maker
Ashley Du Preez was the hero of the night, scoring the decisive goal in the 69th minute. The forward, who was introduced at halftime, finished off a well-crafted move after a selfless assist from Congolese winger Glody Lilepo. The goal sparked celebrations among the Chiefs faithful, as it ensured their side claimed all three points in a game where breaking down Magesi’s disciplined defense proved difficult.
Kaizer Chiefs Dominate Possession but Struggle to Break Through
Chiefs enjoyed the bulk of possession, recording 67% of the ball and firing 17 shots compared to Magesi’s four. However, Magesi’s deep-lying defense, featuring five at the back and a packed midfield, made it tough for Amakhosi to create clear-cut chances.
The first half saw very few goal-scoring opportunities, with Ranga Chivaviro’s powerful long-range shot being the only real highlight. Magesi goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze produced a superb save to deny the Chiefs forward, ensuring the game remained goalless at the break.
Impactful Substitutions and a Deserved Win
Recognising the need for change, Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi made a triple substitution at halftime, bringing on Du Preez, Mduduzi Shabalala, and Solomons. The fresh legs injected more urgency into Chiefs’ attack, and their persistence eventually paid off when Du Preez capitalised on Lilepo’s smart play to break the deadlock.
Despite their dominance, Chiefs had a nervous finish to the match as Magesi pushed forward in search of an equaliser. However, Amakhosi’s defense held firm, with the visitors failing to register a serious threat on goal. Chiefs could have sealed the victory with a second goal, but Pule Mmodi’s late effort struck the post.
Boost Ahead of Nedbank Cup Clash
The result moves Kaizer Chiefs up to 28 points, securing eighth place in the league standings after 20 matches. More importantly, it restores confidence in the squad ahead of their crucial Nedbank Cup tie against Stellenbosch in Gqeberha on Saturday.
Speaking after the match, Lilepo acknowledged the difficulty of breaking down Magesi’s defense but expressed satisfaction with the team’s ability to grind out a win.
“It was a frustrating game, but in these kinds of matches, you just need to stay focused. At some point, the chance to score will come,” he told SuperSport TV through a translator.
Chiefs will now look to build on this result as they shift their attention to cup competition, hoping to carry their momentum into the weekend showdown against Stellenbosch.
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