sportskeeda
Chippa United’s head coach, Kwanele Kopo, expressed his disappointment with his players’ failure to adequately handle Mdu Shabalala, whose exceptional skills secured the winning goal for Kaizer Chiefs in their Betway Premiership clash at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday.
Shabalala seized the ball on the wing, skillfully weaving past four Chippa defenders, who seemed to falter, before unleashing a powerful shot that whizzed past the near post.
This remarkable display highlighted Shabalala’s growing importance to the Chiefs, who are currently struggling with inconsistent performances. Coach Nasreddine Nabi emphasized that Shabalala carries significant responsibility on his shoulders.
The win over Chippa marked the end of Chiefs’ two-match winless streak against this team in Durban, following a prior loss and a draw.
“The young man has undeniable talent,” Kopo acknowledged.
“It is challenging to accept because we knew the right footer would inevitably cut inside. Whether it was Pule Mmodi, Shabalala, or Wandile Dube, that movement was always foreseen.
“I believe Seun Ndlovu, playing right-back, made an initial move that allowed him to cut inside, and once he got close to the box—everyone seemed reluctant to commit a foul or jeopardize a penalty.
“There was one occasion where we allowed it, and the player executed it well. It’s somewhat disappointing to concede at the near post, but perhaps Stanley Nwabali was anticipating a curl to the opposite side.”
Shabalala’s fourth league goal of the season reinforced his position as Chiefs’ top scorer, outpacing teammate Ranga Chivaviro.
Unhappy with his team’s first-half performance, coach Kopo substituted Ayabulela Konqobe, who visibly showed his frustration and swiftly left for the tunnel.
Konqobe was replaced by Baraka Majogoro, as Kopo explained that Konqobe was not following his tactical instructions.
“I felt he was not applying himself tactically as directed,” Kopo pointed out.
“He barely engaged with the ball, was misplaced during our attacking plays, and struggled to help press Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Yusuf Maart, which led to the change.
“It’s not a decision I take lightly, but to regain control of the match, it was necessary. I sensed that Baraka’s introduction added more stability to the midfield.”
