Kaizer Chiefs suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Richards Bay FC at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday. This loss marked Amakhosi’s third defeat in their last five games, putting a serious dent in their hopes of securing a top-three finish in the Betway Premiership. Meanwhile, the Natal Rich Boyz took a significant step towards survival, moving up to 11th place and creating a three-point cushion above the relegation zone.
Kaizer Chiefs Dominate Early But Fail to Capitalise
Looking to put their previous loss to Cape Town City behind them, Chiefs started the match with intensity and dictated play in the first half. They created several goal-scoring opportunities, particularly in the first 25 minutes. One of their best chances arrived in the 21st minute when Dillon Solomons and Glody Lilepo combined well on the right flank, setting up Ashley du Preez with a pinpoint cross. However, the striker’s close-range header was brilliantly denied by Richards Bay goalkeeper Salim Magoola.
Despite having the lion’s share of possession, Chiefs struggled to break down a compact Richards Bay defence. The home side rarely threatened in the first half, allowing Chiefs to control the tempo, but their lack of efficiency in front of goal proved costly. By halftime, Amakhosi had dominated in every aspect except the scoreboard.
Richards Bay Strike Twice in the Second Half
Richards Bay came out of the break with a different mentality and took just three minutes to make an impact. In the 48th minute, Fezile Gcaba, a former Orlando Pirates defender, rose highest in a crowded penalty box to nod home a well-placed free-kick from Justice Figueiredo. The goal sent the home fans into celebration while stunning the Chiefs supporters, who had been expecting a different outcome.
The setback rattled Chiefs, who pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Coach Nasreddine Nabi made several attacking changes, but the visitors failed to regain the momentum they had in the first half. Instead, Richards Bay grew in confidence, remaining disciplined in defence while exploiting gaps left by Chiefs on the counter.
The final blow came in the 73rd minute when Yanela Mbuthuma doubled the lead with a well-taken finish. The 23-year-old reacted quickest to a rebound off the upright, securing a crucial victory for his side. Richards Bay’s quick and decisive counter-attacking play was too much for Amakhosi to handle.
Tactical Missteps and a Costly Loss for Chiefs
Despite making all their substitutions in the second half, Chiefs failed to find a way back into the game. Their attacking rhythm disappeared after the break, and their lack of clinical finishing continued to haunt them. With another defeat, their top-three aspirations are now in serious jeopardy.
Coach Nabi will be frustrated by his team’s inconsistency, as they once again failed to turn possession into goals. Meanwhile, Richards Bay’s defensive discipline and second-half efficiency proved decisive, earning them a valuable three points in their relegation battle.
What’s Next?
With the international break coming up, both teams will have time to regroup. Chiefs will return to action at the end of the month when they face Golden Arrows in Durban, while Richards Bay will travel to Polokwane City as they continue their fight for survival.
Final Score
Richards Bay 2 – 0 Kaizer Chiefs (Gcaba 48’, Mbuthuma 73’)
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