Khune’s farewell a forgettable one as Chiefs stumble to draw with PLK City
It was a Saturday afternoon meant for tributes and a celebration of a club legend, Itumeleng Khune. But Kaizer Chiefs’ faithful left FNB Stadium deeply disappointed after their team could only manage a draw against Polokwane City FC.
In what was supposed to be a memorable farewell for goalkeeper Khune, the Glamour Boys produced a flat performance, leaving a sour taste on what could have been a special occasion.
The attendance at the iconic 2010 FIFA World Cup venue, FNB Stadium, was disappointing, as many fans opted to stay away from Khune’s final home game in a Chiefs shirt.
Though attendance was low, the stadium came alive when Khune entered the pitch in the 75th minute for his final home appearance for Chiefs. The veteran goalie replaced Bruce Bvuma, and Given Msimango took the captain’s armband and relinquished it to the departing legend.
Khune managed to keep a clean sheet for the remaining quarter-hour. This marked his first clean sheet of the 2023/24 PSL season in his sixth appearance, having conceded goals in all five previous matches.
Chiefs Draw Dampens CLUB LEGEND Khune’s Last Hurrah
The draw keeps the pressure on Amakhosi in the race for a top-eight finish. With only one match left in the season, they remain in eighth place with 36 points, level with AmaZulu FC, who are in ninth place.
However, a superior goal difference is the only thing separating Chiefs from dropping out of the MTN8 position.
Khune did not make any save as the tie unfolded as a frustrating stalemate. Amakhosi struggled to carve out clear scoring opportunities, while PLK City, despite enjoying a slight edge in chance creation, lacked the finishing touch to convert their dominance.
Before the game, a touching tribute unfolded. Chiefs legend Khune, 36, received a well-deserved guard of honour. Opposing players lined up opposite the tunnel, applauding as Khune emerged.
The outpouring of respect culminated with signed shirts and warm embraces from both Chiefs team manager Bobby Motaung and Amakhosi sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr. It was a poignant moment that celebrated a true club icon.
A stalwart for Chiefs, Khune has racked up over 340 appearances for the club, his heroics securing an impressive 150+ clean sheets throughout his illustrious career.
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