Amakhosi Secure Continental Return
Kaizer Chiefs left it late as goals from Tashreeq Morris and Mfundo Vilakazi secured a 2-0 victory over Sekhukhune United at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, booking Amakhosi’s place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
With the match seemingly headed for a draw, Glody Lilepo’s attempted shot fell kindly to Morris, who found himself unmarked inside the box and tapped into an empty net in the 82nd minute.
Vilakazi then sealed the victory from the penalty spot in the closing stages of the referee’s optional time after Lilepo was brought down inside the area while chasing a cross.
The youngster calmly converted the spot-kick, firing into the top corner and giving Toaster Nsabata no chance.
The win moved Chiefs to 51 points after 28 matches, confirming their qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
AmaZulu FC, who are fourth on the table, can no longer catch Chiefs after accumulating 44 points with two games to go.
The Glamour Boys entered the match determined to avoid extending their winless run in the league to three matches following their recent 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.
Meanwhile, Sekhukhune arrived looking to build on the momentum from their impressive 3-1 victory over Chippa United on Wednesday.
The opening 10 minutes produced a balanced contest, with both sides searching for opportunities to break the deadlock.
Pule Mmodi made a strong run in the 19th minute and was fouled just outside the box, giving Chiefs a promising free-kick opportunity. However, Lilepo sent his effort over the crossbar.
Mmodi squandered another good chance in the 22nd minute, shooting wide from inside the box with only the goalkeeper to beat.
In the 31st minute, Sekhukhune nearly opened the scoring when Olerato Mandi unleashed an effort inside the area, but it was comfortably saved by Brandon Peterson.
Gaston Sirino also tried his luck from long range in the 38th minute, but his shot was gathered by Nsabata.
The first half ended goalless.
Chiefs emerged for the second half with greater intensity and attacking intent, applying sustained pressure on the visitors.
In the 55th minute, Lilepo cut inside from the edge of the box and unleashed a powerful effort, but the goalkeeper produced another fine save.
As the second half progressed, Chiefs continued searching for the breakthrough and introduced Morris, who had not featured for the side this season.
With the match drifting toward a stalemate, Morris and Vilakazi ensured that they secured a crucial victory for Amakhosi.
