The pressure on Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi intensified after his team was held to a 1-1 draw by TS Galaxy in a Betway Premiership match at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Chiefs appeared poised for victory, with Wandile Duba’s first-half goal giving them the lead. However, Mlungisi Mbunjana capitalized on defensive lapses from Chiefs to score an equalizer in the 81st minute, just before stoppage time.

Former Chiefs attacker Thuso Dithejane missed a crucial opportunity to secure three points for Galaxy, volleying wide when through on goal.

This draw extends Chiefs’ winless streak to four league matches, increasing the scrutiny on coach Nabi. The team entered the match under significant pressure, having failed to win their previous three outings, including two consecutive defeats.

Their last victory was against Magesi at the beginning of the previous month, and with wins proving elusive, their top-eight position is now under threat.  

Before the match, Chiefs were eighth in the league standings, making a win crucial to maintain their position. Conversely, Galaxy, sitting comfortably in fourth place, has enjoyed a strong start under coach Adnan Beganovic, despite a recent loss to Marumo Gallants.

Chiefs initiated the attack, with Duba forcing an early corner in the 21st minute. Glody Lilepo then missed a golden opportunity, failing to convert a close-range chance from a Duba cross. Duba continued to be a threat, setting up Nkosi Ngcobo, whose volley went over the bar.

Galaxy responded with their own chances, with Dženan Zajmović also missing a close-range volley. In the 36th minute, Chiefs took the lead. Kganyane Letsoenyo’s back pass fell to Sirino, whose shot was saved by Ira Tape, allowing Duba to score his fifth league goal, making him Chiefs’ top scorer.

Before halftime, Bruce Bvuma made a crucial save from Khulumane Ndamane’s header, preserving Chiefs’ lead.

Early in the second half, Bvuma denied Victor Letsoalo with a close-range header. Chiefs then missed an opportunity to double their lead when Sirino failed to capitalize on a chance created by Yusuf Maart.

However, Mbunjana, who was relieved Chiefs did not score from Sirino since it was his mistake, scored the equalizer in the 81st minute. Siphesihle Maduna’s corner caused chaos in the Chiefs’ box, leading to Mbunjana’s goal, much to Nabi’s frustration.

Dithejane then missed a late chance to win it for Galaxy after being set up by Sphiwe Mahlangu.

As the match concluded, Nabi’s disappointment was evident as he headed straight to the tunnel.