Kaizer Chiefs move top of Betway Premiership after Wandile Duba double

Kaizer Chiefs climbed to the top of the Betway Premiership after second-half substitute Wandile Duba scored twice in a 3-1 victory over newly promoted Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium.

The result lifted Fernando Da Cruz’s side above Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates on goals scored. Pirates had earlier beaten Milford FC 2-0, leaving the two teams level on points at the top of the table.

The match started 15 minutes late after large numbers of supporters arrived at the stadium after the scheduled kick-off time.

Despite the delayed start, Chiefs made an immediate impression and took the lead after only six minutes. Flavio Da Silva finished from inside the penalty area at the end of an excellent team move that began in the Chiefs half.

Amakhosi controlled much of the possession after going in front, but they struggled to turn that dominance into further clear opportunities. Kruger United gradually grew into the contest and came close to an equaliser after 30 minutes, when Khetukuthula Ndlovu sent a powerful effort from outside the box narrowly over the crossbar.

Chiefs were then awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position five minutes later. Mfundo Vilakazi took responsibility, but his attempt failed to find a way through the crowded defensive wall.

The visitors’ grip on the game weakened as the first half progressed, allowing Kruger United to apply increasing pressure. That shift was rewarded in stoppage time when Ndlovu curled an effort against the inside of the post and into the net to level the score.

Da Cruz responded at the interval by making two substitutions. Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Duba were introduced in place of Siphesihle Ndlovu and Da Silva.

The changes had an immediate impact. Duba restored Chiefs’ advantage after Kruger United goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou could only parry a shot from Reeve Frosler. The loose ball fell in front of Duba, who kept his composure to convert from close range.

Duba completed his brace 10 minutes later, giving Chiefs control of the match. His deflected effort looped over Dandjinou and extended Amakhosi’s lead to 3-1.

Kruger United were unable to find a response during the closing stages, and Chiefs held on for a victory that moved them to the summit of the Betway Premiership.

The final score also maintained Chiefs’ advantage over Orlando Pirates at the top of the standings, with Da Cruz’s team currently ahead because they have scored more goals.