Hlongwane Scores As Chiefs Secure First Pre-Season Win In Netherlands

Kaizer Chiefs have secured their first victory of their pre-season camp in the Netherlands, defeating PEC Zwolle 1-0 on Tuesday. While the scoreline was narrow, Chiefs had opportunities to win by a larger margin.

Naledi Hlongwane, a standout player during Chiefs’ DStv Diski Challenge triumph last season, scored the decisive goal. He capitalized on a rebound, finishing from close range after an initial shot struck the upright.

This win comes after a challenging start to their pre-season tour, with Chiefs having previously lost to Vitesse (2-1), suffered a significant 4-0 defeat to Utrecht, and a 1-0 loss to NEC Nijmegen.

Match Details and Squad Rotation

For this friendly match, coach Nasreddine Nabi opted for a starting lineup that included Brandon Petersen in goal, supported by a back four of Aden McCarthy, Thabiso Monyane, Inacio Miguel, and Nkanyiso Shinga. Ox Nthethwa anchored the midfield, with Nkosi Ngcobo, Mdu Shabalala, Glody Lilepo, and Pule Mmodi providing support. New signing Falvo Da Silva led the attack.

The first half was a tight affair with few clear-cut chances for either side, and the deadlock remained unbroken. However, Hlongwane broke the stalemate, calmly slotting home after Chiefs’ initial attempt came off the post.

Following the goal, Nabi introduced more changes, bringing on Ethan Chislet, Gaston Sirino, and Reeve Frosler. Chiefs’ performance significantly improved against Zwolle, as they began to pepper the opposition’s goal.

Later, Wandile Duba was also introduced, and the Amakhosi continued to exert pressure, largely dictating play in the Dutch side’s half.

Although Zwolle did create some opportunities, Bruce Bvuma, who replaced Petersen in the second half, made two crucial saves late in the game to preserve Chiefs’ clean sheet.

Upcoming Fixtures

This match was the second-to-last friendly of Chiefs’ pre-season camp in the Netherlands. The team will conclude their Dutch tour with a final friendly against FC Twente on Wednesday, a club where Bernard Parker, a former Chiefs star, won a league title under Steve McClaren.

After their friendly against Twente, Kaizer Chiefs will return home to face Asante Kotoko in the Toyota Cup at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 26 July.