Kaizer Chiefs failed to secure all three points despite dominating AmaZulu in a frustrating Betway Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night. The match marked Chiefs’ return to league action after missing out over the weekend due to their participation in the CAF preliminary rounds.
Despite controlling most of the game, the Amakhosi found themselves trailing early on. AmaZulu struck first when a dangerous cross into the box was calmly slotted home by Ngwenya, giving Usuthu the lead against the run of play.
Chiefs had an opportunity to level the score shortly after when they were awarded a controversial penalty for a soft handball. Lilepo stepped up but his weak effort was easily saved, much to the disappointment of the home crowd.
The equaliser finally came through the lively Mduduzi Shabalala, who found the back of the net after a well-worked move and a sharp assist from Pule Mmodi. Shabalala’s goal injected life back into the match and gave Chiefs the momentum they had been searching for.
Just before halftime, Chiefs thought they had taken the lead when Pule Mmodi chipped the ball past the AmaZulu keeper. However, Khanyisa Mayo, who was in an offside position, tapped the ball into the net even though it was already goal-bound. The goal was disallowed for offside, leaving Chiefs frustrated once again.
Speaking after the match, Amakhosi assistant coach Ben Youseff commented on the turning points:
“As I always tell the players, football is a game of small details. It’s mentally tough on the players when you miss a penalty, it changes everything.”
The second half saw fewer chances, with AmaZulu largely on the back foot. Chiefs continued to push for a winner, but Usuthu goalkeeper Darren Johnson pulled off several key saves to deny the home side and keep the score level.
AmaZulu head coach Arthur Zwane acknowledged Chiefs’ strong performance:
“To be quite honest, Chiefs are playing well, we saw it tonight. They’re really playing good football.”
Looking ahead, Kaizer Chiefs will travel to face Stellenbosch FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 this weekend, while AmaZulu host Magesi FC in the same competition before the Fifa break.