Kaizer Chiefs concluded their Betway Premiership campaign with a 1-0 defeat against Chippa United at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. Chippa United’s victory ensured they avoided the Relegation/Promotion play-off position.
Chiefs Dominate Early But Chippa Strike First
The Soweto giants were unable to build on their two-match winning streak heading into the final match of the season, thanks to Sammy Seabi’s first-half goal. The Eastern Cape side avoided the drop by ending their campaign in 13th place, four points clear of the Relegation/Promotion play-off spot. Kaizer Chiefs dominated the opening exchanges, with Asanele Velebayi and Luke Baartman missing attempts inside the first three minutes. Around the 15th minute mark, Amakhosi continued to apply pressure.
Chippa’s first notable attempt at goal came in the 12th minute, after Azola Matrose let off a shot inside the area that was subsequently blocked. Moments after the half-hour mark, Chippa broke the deadlock when Seabi found the back of the net from close range. The Chilli Boys took the lead against the run of play given Chiefs’ pressure at the other end of the pitch. With momentum on their side, Chippa actively searched for a second goal as halftime approached, with Azola Matrose and Goodman Mosele keeping the opposition backline busy.
Amakhosi Unable to Capitalise After the Break
Amakhosi started the second half stronger after Baartman summoned Dumisani Msibi into action with a shot. Baartman proved to be Chiefs’ attacker-in-chief leading up to the 60th minute, while the Glamour Boys edged Chippa to the ball possession count. Chiefs continued to see more of the ball as the match concluded but failed to capitalise on their chances in the final third.
Lebohang Maboe registered the last attempt at goal in the 93rd minute. Maboe watched his header go wide of the target after being assisted by Pule Mmodi with a cross on the edge of the 18-yard-area.
Kaizer Chiefs Substitutions:
- Msimango replaced McCarthy (38’)
- Mmodi replaced Velebayi (75’)
- Sirino replaced Baartman (65’)
- Chislett replaced Vilakazi (75’)
- Morris replaced Hlongwane (65’)
Chippa United Substitutions:
- Philander replaced Kammies (90’)
- Madingwana replaced Matrose (79’)
- Mfecane replaced Tshobeni (68’)
- Bongani replaced Kwabiya (79’)
Chippa United avoided the Relegation/Promotion play-off position with the victory.