Mfundo Vilakazi emerged as the hero for Kaizer Chiefs as they clinched a dramatic late 1-0 victory against Sekhukhune United at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
The 19-year-old substitute provided the much-needed spark, scoring the decisive goal just three minutes before the final whistle as he danced through the defence to curl a shot into the bottom corner.
The match’s turning point arrived shortly before Chiefs found the net when Sekhukhune defender Vuyo Letlapa was sent off after receiving a red card in the 84th minute.
With a man advantage, the Glamour Boys capitalised quickly, showcasing their determination to snatch all three points.
This victory marked the second win in three matches for Chiefs, propelling them to fifth place in the Betway Premiership standings, a mere four points behind third-placed Polokwane City.
For Sekhukhune United, the defeat brought an abrupt end to their five-game unbeaten streak, leaving coach Lehlohonolo Seema with much to ponder.
Facing the pressure to bounce back following a disappointing outing the previous week, the Amakhosi were eager to impress in front of their passionate Durban supporters.
Star player Mduduzi Shabalala was absent due to injury, leaving Tebogo Potsane and Pule Mmodi with the responsibility of supporting Wandile Duba in attack. Shabalala had been a prolific supplier in the league this season with five contributions, and his absence was felt intently during the match.
Sekhukhune entered the match in solid form, having won four of their last five outings. Samkelo Zwane, in a rare starting role, attempted to ignite the game early, sending Duba through on goal in the opening minutes.
However, the young striker struggled with his composure, missing the target by lashing his shot over the bar. Duba’s difficulties continued in the first half as he squandered several promising opportunities, including a glaring chance in the 25th minute when he was denied by an agile Badre Sangare.
It was evident from the first half that Chiefs were the stronger side, creating numerous chances while relegating Sekhukhune to sporadic attempts at goal—Vuyo Letlapa’s effort in the 34th minute was an exception, drawing a solid save from keeper Bruce Bvuma.
Coach Nabi Nasreddine’s absence was felt, as standing coach Ben Youssef made crucial substitutions to inject energy into the Chiefs' play.
The introduction of captain Yusuf Maart and the lively Vilakazi proved instrumental, shifting the momentum in favour of the home side.
As the match drew to a close and tensions heightened, it was Vilakazi who struck gold for Chiefs, delivering a moment of brilliance that not only secured the victory but also sent the home crowd into raptures.
The late goal encapsulated the resilience and tenacity that the Chiefs are aiming to embody as they vie for a higher league position.
For Sekhukhune, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow, especially after such a commendable run of form.
Coach Seema will need to regroup his troops as they look to return to winning ways in their next encounter as both team turn their attentions towards the Nedbank Cup.