Matshelane Mamabolo
MARUMO GALLANTS 0
KAIZER CHIEFS 0
Chiefs win 4-3 via shoot-out from the penalty spot
In a clash that saw them lift the inaugural CUFA Cup, Kaizer Chiefs left many observers unconvinced with their performance at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein yesterday.
Despite eking out a victory against Marumo Gallants, the Amakhosi's inability to find the net in regulation time raises questions as they prepare to face SuperSport United in the upcoming Carling Knockout.
Fans were ecstatic as Chiefs celebrated their win, thanks largely to goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma, who emerged as a hero in the penalty shoot-out, saving two critical spot-kicks after both sides levelled the initial three penalties each. His performance, although commendable, highlighted the pressing concerns in the Chiefs squad as they attempt to regain their former glory.
During regular play, Bvuma was left untested for most of the match, only thwarting a one-on-one opportunity from Gallants midfielder Siyabulela Shai early on, following a defensive blunder. In contrast, Gallants’ goalkeeper Kagiso Mlambo was under constant pressure, making several outstanding saves that kept Chiefs at bay.
Mlambo's commendable efforts included stops against Wandile Duba and Christian Saile, showcasing his talent and confidence throughout the match.
Chiefs may have appeared the better side on the surface, creating numerous scoring opportunities. However, their actual performance fell short of the required level to take on formidable teams like Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
Strikers Ranga Chivaviro and Saile notably squandered golden chances, lacking the necessary composure and confidence expected at such a level.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi utilised the match as an experimental platform, providing almost every player with a run. Despite this, the team failed to exhibit the killer instinct that has eluded them in crucial moments, which is a concern ahead of their encounter against SuperSport United.
Nabi acknowledged after the game, “We created a lot of opportunities and we missed them a lot ... this is a big, big problem.”
The Tunisian tactician expressed his desire for a winning mentality, stating, “I want a positive attitude, winning in exercise and in training, I want to win. But if I lose, it is a problem for me.”
He noted that his team's loss of momentum allowed Gallants to seize control at times, a scenario deemed unacceptable.
As Chiefs reflect on this victory as a potential building block, it will also serve as an early birthday gift for club president Kaizer Motaung, who turns 80 this Wednesday. However, only time will reveal if this triumph can spark a more consistent and fearsome performance in the battle ahead.