Kaizer Chiefs lead Siwelele FC at half-time after Mfundo Vilakazi strike

Kaizer Chiefs took a 1-0 lead into half-time against Siwelele FC in their Betway Premiership match at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday evening, with Mfundo Vilakazi scoring his first goal of the campaign.

Fernando Da Cruz made two changes to the Kaizer Chiefs starting line-up. Wandile Duba was recalled in place of Luke Baartman, while Dillan Solomons started at right-back after Thabiso Monyane was left out of the squad.

The Soweto side controlled most of the early possession as they looked to respond to their draw with Richards Bay a couple of weeks earlier. Despite their dominance, Kaizer Chiefs initially struggled to create clear chances and were largely limited to attempts from distance as the opening half progressed.

Siwelele FC found it difficult to make any headway in the final third, with Kaizer Chiefs’ defence maintaining a firm grip on the contest. The visitors were patient in their build-up and eventually found a breakthrough in the 29th minute.

Goalkeeper Xulu came rushing off his line, but Vilakazi kept his composure to produce an excellent finish from a tight angle and give Kaizer Chiefs the advantage.

The goal marked Vilakazi’s first of the season and reflected a first half in which Kaizer Chiefs had been the more convincing team. They came close to doubling their lead when Duba finished from close range, although the effort was ruled out for offside.

The contest was a sharp contrast to the teams’ league meeting in April, with Kaizer Chiefs taking control from the start on this occasion.

Siwelele FC, playing in front of their home supporters, endured a frustrating first 45 minutes. Vincent Pule and Sphesihle Jeza were unable to make an impact in attack, while Kaizer Chiefs continued to deny the home side meaningful opportunities.

The teams lined up as follows:

Kaizer Chiefs: 1. Petersen, 18. Solomons, 4. Kwinika, 84. Miguel, 41. Moloisane, 6. Maboe, 8. Ndlovu, 7. Shabalala, 13. Mmodi, 38. Vilakazi, 37. Duba.

Substitutes: 16. Leaner, 39. Frosler, 48. Cross, 5. Mthethwa, 22. Mtasingwa, 23. Chislett, 77. Ighodaro, 11. Baartman, 35. Abrahams.

Siwelele FC: 30. Xulu, 2. Mfolozi, 4. Sesane, 33. Ndebele, 29. Baliti, 8. Mokhuoane, 26. Kobedi, 10. Pule, 20. Thulo, 17. Jeza, 19. Issah.

Substitutes: 1. February, 21. Benjamin, 5. Khoyane, 80. Ngcobo, 6. Rasebotja, 12. Mazibuko, 7. Mokhachane, 16. Potsane, 28. Nguessan.