Chippa United and Kaizer Chiefs shared the points after a 0-0 draw in their Betway Premiership clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Wednesday night.
Amakhosi made seven changes from the starting eleven that faced Zamalek SC in their CAF Confederation Cup group stage tie over the weekend at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
Bradley Cross was replaced by Paseka Mako at left back, George Matlou came in for Sibongiseni Mthethwa, and Gaston Sirino’s spot was taken by Nkosingiphile Ngcobo.
Meanwhile, the Soweto giants also made some tactical changes. The on-form Dillan Solomons was replaced by Thabiso Monyane, Mfundo Vilakazi coming in for Mduduzi Shabalala, Asanele Velebayi starting in place of Pule Mmodi, and Flavio Da Silva replacing Etiosa Ighodaro.
The visitors effectively frustrated the Chilli Boys early in the first half, as they mounted an aggressive attack aiming for an early goal.
As the half went on, the game’s dynamic shifted. Chippa were no longer sitting back and trying to take control of the showdown.
CHIPPA UNITED AND KAIZER CHIEFS LEVEL AT HALF-TIME
The showdown went into the half-time break with Chippa and the Soweto giants not having found the back of the net.
In the second half, the Chiefs upped the ante, taking command of the contest. Unfortunately, their aim to break the deadlock was never meant to be.
However, the hosts put in a resilient defensive display to deny Amakhosi forwards.
As the second stanza neared the end, the home side couldn’t capitalise on their clear-cut chances. Chiefs remained disciplined at the back, not allowing the Chilli Boys to do as they pleased.
Nevertheless, the final whistle blew with the Vusumuzi Vilakazi-coached side and the Chiefs settling for a 0-0 draw.
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