sportskeeda
Kaizer Chiefs missed crucial opportunities, resulting in a 1-1 stalemate against AmaZulu during their Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening.
The Glamour Boys were left disappointed after Glody Lilepo’s missed penalty and a controversial moment involving Khanyisa Mayo, hindering their chances of securing a victory.
Chiefs’ Early Misses Prove Costly
The match kicked off with high energy as Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya netted the opening goal for Usuthu in the 21st minute. Chiefs made a vigorous effort to level the score, earning a penalty, but Lilepo’s attempt was expertly saved by AmaZulu goalkeeper Darren Johnson, who made a brilliant dive to his right.
Shortly thereafter, Pule Mmodi fired a shot that appeared to be heading for the goal, but Mayo, who was in an offside position, interfered, leading to the goal being disallowed.
Shabalala Comes to Chiefs’ Rescue
Facing rising discontent from fans, Mduduzi Shabalala stepped up for Chiefs, equalizing in the 32nd minute by driving the ball into the top of the net, making it 1-1.
The visitors, Usuthu, took advantage of their first significant chance in the 20th minute when Ngwenya, a Zimbabwean international, found the net with a well-placed header that deceived Brandon Peterson.
Chiefs were awarded a penalty in the 29th minute due to a handball by Riaan Hanamub inside the box. However, Lilepo’s shot was expertly thwarted by Johnson, demonstrating brilliant anticipation. Just three minutes later, Chiefs’ young talent Shabalala found the net, assisted by Pule Mmodi, to level the score.
In the second half, Amakhosi continued to create chances, particularly early on, but failed to capitalize. A poorly executed direct free kick by Lilepo near the box only compounded their troubles.
AmaZulu came close to taking the lead in the 68th minute when captain Hanamub’s shot narrowly missed the mark following a beautiful cross from Athini Maqoko.
Pushing for a decisive goal, Chiefs made their first substitutions in the 76th minute, bringing on Thabo Cele, Gaston Sirino, and Flavio Da Silva. Despite applying pressure and generating more opportunities, especially in the closing minutes, Amakhosi could not convert.
The draw leaves Amakhosi in fifth place with 15 points from eight matches, whereas Usuthu remains in ninth with 11 points after seven games.
Both teams will now take a break from league action to prepare for their Carling Knockout round of 16 matches. Chiefs will clash with Stellenbosch at DHL Stadium on Sunday, while Usuthu will host Magesi at FNB Stadium on the same day.
