Baartman And Shabalala Strike As Chiefs Slay Kaze To Reclaim Top Spot
Kaizer Chiefs returned to the top of the Betway Premiership standings after securing a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Amakhosi endured a difficult opening 45 minutes, struggling to create clear-cut chances as Sekhukhune United kept them frustrated. However, Fernando Da Cruz’s side found their rhythm after the break and eventually broke the deadlock through Luke Baartman.
Mduduzi Shabalala was introduced from the bench and made an immediate impact, scoring Chiefs’ second goal to seal an important victory in front of their home supporters.
The result was particularly significant for Amakhosi as they looked to bounce back after suffering a defeat to Golden Arrows on Sunday, which saw them eliminated from the MTN8.
Chiefs were also determined to maintain their perfect start to their Betway Premiership campaign after opening the season with a victory over Kruger United two weeks ago.
Following Wednesday’s win, Amakhosi moved back to the summit of the Betway Premiership standings with six points from their opening two matches.
The victory also provided relief for Chiefs captain and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, who recorded his first clean sheet of the season. Petersen had conceded against both Kruger United and Golden Arrows in Chiefs’ previous matches.
The encounter also carried an interesting storyline, with Chiefs facing former assistant coach and co-coach Cedric Kaze, who is now in charge of Sekhukhune United. The Burundian coach spent the previous two seasons with Amakhosi before taking charge of Babina Noko.
With three points secured, Chiefs will now turn their attention to another major challenge as they prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns at FNB Stadium.
The upcoming clash will provide another opportunity for Amakhosi to strengthen their position at the top of the standings while also testing themselves against one of the country’s strongest sides.
Chiefs and Sundowns played out draws in both of their league meetings last season, with the first encounter taking place at FNB Stadium before the sides shared the points again at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Amakhosi will therefore be hoping to go one step further this time when the two sides meet again at the iconic Johannesburg venue.
