Kaizer Chiefs’ seven-game unbeaten streak in the Betway Premiership came to an end after a 2–0 defeat to Siwelele FC at Toyota Stadium on Wednesday night.
Amakhosi welcomed back Thabo Cele, Paseka Mako and Mduduzi Shabalala, with Bradley Cross and Siphesihle Ndlovu also featuring in the changes following the Soweto Derby. Siwelele, meanwhile, reinstated Relebogile Mokhuoane and Yandisa Mfolozi to their line-up.
The hosts made their intentions clear early on and struck inside six minutes. Tebogo Potsane reacted quickest after Brandon Petersen parried a powerful effort from Mazibuko, finishing from close range to hand Siwelele the lead.
Chiefs responded with urgency, as Thabiso Monyane unleashed a first-time effort from the right, but goalkeeper Ricardo Goss produced an acrobatic save to deny the visitors an equaliser.
That missed opportunity proved costly, with Siwelele doubling their advantage just seven minutes later. Ghampani Lungu spearheaded a swift counter-attack before setting up Sphesihle Jeza, who showed composure to control and finish past Petersen.
After an underwhelming first half, Chiefs introduced Inacio Miguel for Mako and Flavio da Silva in place of Pule Mmodi in search of a response. Da Silva offered a spark, making an immediate impact with a run in behind the defence, but Goss was once again equal to the effort.
Siwelele remained resolute in the closing stages, managing the game effectively to secure a crucial victory in their push for a top-eight finish, while Chiefs’ grip on a top-three spot weakened following the setback.
Kaizer Chiefs will now be eager to redeem their top-three ambitions when they face log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria, while Siwelele FC look to make full use of home advantage against Durban City.
Images:Kaizer Chiefs Football Club