DDC Wrap: Chiefs Claim Victory with Authority

In an exhilarating DStv Diski Challenge match held at Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday afternoon, the Kaizer Chiefs reserve team rallied from a goal down to secure a thrilling 2-1 victory over their arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates, concluding the year on a high note.

The Chiefs almost took the lead in the 15th minute when Naledi Hlongwane’s shot from inside the box required a quick response from Pirates goalkeeper Ethan Visagie, who made the save. A rebound ensued, leading to a corner that was effectively cleared by the opposition.

Just five minutes later, Siphamandla Msezane found himself in a one-on-one situation against Chiefs goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba, who expertly anticipated the threat and forced Msezane out wide.

As halftime approached, Chiefs came close to breaking the deadlock when Makhubo Matlala’s chip forced Mmatlou Sepale into a crucial line-clearance, but the ball fell to Chiefs players, prompting Visagie to execute another important save.

The Buccaneers thought they had taken the lead when Neo Mokoena struck the post with a powerful shot, but the ball stayed out of the net and was cleared by Ntandoyenkosi Nkosi, leaving the score level at 0-0 at halftime.

The Sea Robbers posed their first significant threat of the second half when Mokoena surged down the left flank before delivering a pass to Cemran Dansin, whose shot just sailed over the crossbar in the 58th minute. Sepale put Joseph Makhanya’s side ahead with a precise close-range finish in the 74th minute, but just four minutes later, a penalty awarded to the hosts was confidently converted by Aden McCarthy to level the score.

In a dramatic finish, Chiefs landed the decisive blow in the first minute of stoppage time, earning all three points and elevating themselves to second place with 27 points, trailing only two points behind the defending champions, Stellenbosch FC. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers remain in eighth place.

In related news, SuperSport United also scored late, with substitute Manelis Mazibuko netting from a cross inside the box to secure maximum points for the Tshwane team.

Matsatsantsa a Pitori climbed to fourth place in the DStv Diski Challenge standings, amassing 25 points from 13 matches, with seven wins, four draws, and two losses this season.