Harsh Welcome For Nabi As Yanga Crush Chiefs
In a dazzling display at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, Young Africans routed Kaizer Chiefs 4-0, leaving fans and critics alike in awe.
This first publicly televised match for the Chiefs following their worst league finish was expected to be a statement under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi. Instead, it highlighted areas for improvement as the Tanzanian champions showcased their prowess.
Both teams began with equal possession, but early struggles in the final third were evident. The match saw its first breakthrough in the 25th minute when ex-SuperSport United striker Prince Dube capitalized on a defensive mishap, calmly slotting the ball past a static Brandon Peterson.
The Chiefs sought a swift response, with Mfundo Vilakazi’s long-range effort nearly leveling the score. However, Yanga’s goalkeeper Djigui Diarra was untroubled, maintaining his clean sheet.
Just before halftime, a mix-up between Nkosana Mbuthu and Thatayaone Dithlokwe gifted the ball to Yanga’s Aziz Ki, who didn’t hesitate to extend the lead, putting Chiefs under further pressure.
Emerging from the break in a fresh away kit, Kaizer Chiefs made a substitution, bringing Nkosingiphile Ngcobo onto the pitch. Yet, this tactical shift did little to halt Yanga’s momentum. Clement Mzize added a third goal with a delicate chip over the keeper in the 57th minute, exploiting the defensive vulnerabilities of the Chiefs.
Minutes later, a misjudged back pass by Samkelo Zwane allowed Ki to strike again. Displaying remarkable finesse, Ki deceived Given Msimango with a clever dummy before elegantly chipping over Peterson for Yanga’s fourth goal.
The relentless Yanga came close to a fifth when a free kick rattled the woodwork in the 79th minute, signaling their continued dominance.
Despite attempts to alter tactics and seek a consolation goal, Chiefs were left without answers. Young Africans’ clinical finishing was a stark contrast, converting four shots into four goals. This match will serve as a crucial lesson for the Chiefs as they strive to regroup and refine their strategy for the upcoming season.
