Kaizer Chiefs displayed huge character to overcome an early red card and a deficit, fighting back to secure a 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates in an entertaining DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] Soweto Derby tie at Princess Magogo Stadium on Sunday.
Despite playing the majority of the match with a numerical disadvantage, the Amakhosi reserves proved why they are the defending champions, turning the game on its head to claim the all-important bragging rights.
The match exploded into an early drama in the 15th minute when a moment of crisis hit the Naturena-based side. Kabelo Nkgwesa was shown a straight red card after he was judged to have handled the ball inside the box to deny a scoring opportunity.
The referee pointed to the spot, and Pirates’ Mpho Padile made no mistake. Padile showed nerves of steel, sending Chiefs’ shot-stopper Takalani Mazhamba the wrong way with a composed finish to give the Buccaneers an early 1-0 lead.
KAIZER CHIEFS’ RESILIENCE PAID OFF
Down to 10 men and a goal, many expected Chiefs to struggle. Instead, the young Amakhosi rallied. Their determination bore fruit in the 26th minute when Steven Mendes found space inside the penalty area. Mendes unleashed a stunning strike that flew past the Pirates keeper, levelling the score and shifting the momentum back to his side.
The turnaround was completed early in the second half. In the 48th minute, Naledi Hlongwane capitalised on a lapse of concentration in the Pirates’ defence. After a physical tussle for possession inside the box, the ball broke kindly into the path of Kamo Malefo, who remained calm under pressure, slotting the ball into the net to make it 2-1.
Chiefs spent the remainder of the half-defending gallantly. Despite the relentless pressure from the Sea Robbers, who looked to use their extra man to find an equaliser, the Amakhosi backline held firm.
As a result, Pirates are still at the top of the DDC log standings with 57 points from 24 matches. The Sea Robbers are three points ahead of the second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who were not in action this weekend.
Meanwhile, the Glamour Boys have extended their unbeaten streak to six matches. The result leaves Amakhosi in fifth place on the table having accumulated 39 points after 24 games.
DSTV DISKI CHALLENGE WEEKEND RESULTS
Saturday, 28 March 2026
Durban City FC 5-1 Stellenbosch FC
Siwelele FC 2-1 Marumo Gallants
TS Galaxy 1-3 Golden Arrows
Sekhukhune United 3-0 Magesi FC
AmaZulu FC 0-3 Orbit College
Sunday, 29 March 2026
Orlando Pirates 1-2 Kaizer
Chippa United 1-2 Richards Bay
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