Kaizer Chiefs progressed to the Home of Legends final with a confident 2-0 victory against Golden Arrows on Saturday morning. The Soweto giants, under the temporary stewardship of Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, stepped up in the absence of head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who is recuperating from a minor orthopedic procedure.
Line-Up and Tactical Tweaks
Key players such as Sibusiso Mthethwa, Ashley du Preez, and Zitha Kwinika featured in the starting eleven, while regular contributors Tebogo Potsane and Mduduzi Mdantsane began on the bench. Chiefs demonstrated their depth and adaptability throughout the match, blending experience with youthful energy.
Early Dominance
The Amakhosi wasted no time asserting their authority, opening the scoring in the sixth minute. Rising star Mfundo Vilakazi capitalized on a precise cross from Reeve Frosler, slotting the ball past Golden Arrows goalkeeper Nkosingiphile Gumede. The early goal set the tone for a first half where Chiefs created numerous chances, with Bradley Cross and Pule Mmodi testing Gumede further. Vilakazi came close to doubling his tally, but Gumede was up to the task.
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Second-Half Adjustments and the Birthday Boy’s Moment
The second half saw Chiefs make tactical changes, introducing Happy Mashiane and Dillan Solomons to maintain their intensity. Golden Arrows also shuffled their deck, bringing on Velemseni Ndwandwe, Olwethu Ncube, and Nduduzo Sibiya to turn the tide. Despite their efforts, the KwaZulu-Natal side struggled to break through Chiefs' organized defense.
Just five minutes into the second half, Chiefs extended their lead courtesy of birthday boy Nkosingiphile Ngcobo. The midfield maestro marked his special day with a well-taken goal, effectively sealing the match for his team.
The Road Ahead
Golden Arrows fought valiantly but failed to mount a comeback, as Chiefs controlled the latter stages of the game. With this victory, Chiefs advance to the final, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Chippa United.
