Kaizer Chiefs’ winless run extended to four games after they drew 1-1 with TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership on Saturday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
Wandile Duba scored for the ‘Phefeni Glamour Boys’ while Mlungisi Mbunjana netted for ‘Siyadumuza’.
Amakhosi made three changes from the lineup that started against Lamontville Golden Arrows. Bradley Cross, Pule Mmodi and Wandile Duba replaced Edmilson Dove, Thabo Cele and Ashley Du Preez.
The opening minutes of the match were played at a fast pace, with both sides eager to break the deadlock in the critical phase of the game. Despite the high intensity, clear-cut chances in front of goal were scarce, as both teams were solid at the back.
The first significant chance came in the 11th minute when Chiefs earned a free-kick just outside the penalty area after Wandile Duba was fouled. Nkosingiphile Ngcobo stepped up to take the set-piece, unleashing a vicious shot that forced a sharp save from ‘The Rockets’ goalkeeper, Ira Tape.
Just three minutes later, Tape was called into action once more, this time denying Gaston Sirino with a well-executed save from a spinning shot.
The Phefeni Glamour Boys gained more control of possession and started to exert pressure on the visitors, creating several goal-scoring opportunities.
Their constant attack nearly paid off in the 26th minute when Duba delivered a dangerous cross to Glody Lilepo. However, the DRC international failed to capitalise on the glorious chance, putting his shot wide.
DUBA GAVE CHIEFS THE LEAD AFTER GALAXY DEFENSIVE ERROR
The breakthrough for Chiefs finally arrived in the 36th minute, courtesy of Wandile Duba. The goal came from a costly error by Galaxy defender Letsoenyo Kganyana, who gifted possession to Gaston Sirino deep in his own half. Sirino’s shot was saved by Tape, but Duba was quick to react to the rebound, tapping the ball into the net.
The away side pushed hard for an equaliser before the break. However, Chiefs remained resolute in defence and managed to see out the remainder of the first half, leading 1-0.
What could have been a crucial second goal for Chiefs was wasted when Gaston Sirino missed the target. The chance came after a defensive mix-up by Mlungisi Mbunjana, who gifted Sirino possession in a dangerous area.
Adnan Beganovic made his first change in the 55th minute, taking off Mpho Mvelase and introducing Siphesihle Maduna to create more spark offensively for Galaxy.
The game then opened up, with end-to-end action as TS Galaxy pressed forward in search of an equaliser, while Chiefs looked to capitalise on any opportunities to extend their lead.
Beganovic’s side leveled the scoreline, capitalising on a rebound after Bruce Bvuma had saved Edmilson Dove’s attempted clearance, which looked destined for his own net. Mbunjana was on hand to tap in the loose ball in the 80th minute. Chiefs product Puso Dithejane missed a golden opportunity in added time.
As the final whistle approached, the intensity of the match began to fade, with both teams visibly feeling the effects of fatigue. They shared the spoils at the end.
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