Kaizer Chiefs debutant Faiz Abrahams reveals Wandile Duba’s free-kick advice

Kaizer Chiefs newcomer Faiz Abrahams says Wandile Duba urged him to shoot rather than cross before his deflected free-kick helped secure a 3-2 victory over Siwelele F.C. at Dobsonville Stadium.

The 21-year-old made an immediate impact on his debut, scoring in the 77th minute to restore Kaizer Chiefs’ two-goal advantage after Siwelele had threatened to fight back.

The result ensured the Soweto club maintained their strong start to the domestic campaign in front of a packed crowd.

Kaizer Chiefs took control in the 30th minute when Mfundo Vilakazi finished clinically to put the home side ahead. They extended their lead 20 minutes into the second half as Duba found the net to make it 2-0.

Siwelele responded almost immediately through Aphiwe Baliti, setting up a tense finish. But Abrahams then stepped up from a free-kick and sent a powerful effort towards goal. The strike took a deflection off goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu before crossing the line.

Siwelele produced one final moment of pressure in stoppage time when Michel N’Guessan pulled another goal back, but Kaizer Chiefs held on to claim all three points.

Abrahams explains match-winning moment

Abrahams said his decisive set-piece came after advice from Duba, who encouraged him to aim directly for goal.

“When I went to take the free kick, Duba told me not to cross the ball for anyone but to try and score,” Abrahams told the club’s media.

The forward has made an energetic start to life at Naturena and is already being viewed as an effective option from the bench. He said the goal was the reward for the work he has put in behind the scenes.

“It felt great because I have been working very hard.

“I’m just going to keep working hard and giving my all in training. I aim to stay consistent and always keep my performance levels up.”

Abrahams’ arrival has been backed by head coach Fernando da Cruz, who made his expectations clear when the loanee joined the club. Da Cruz instructed him to “go out there and create chances”, and the debutant responded with a performance that included a crucial attacking contribution.

However, competition for a regular starting position remains intense. Abrahams is competing with Pule Mmodi, Mfundo Vilakazi and Ethan Chislett for a place in the Kaizer Chiefs line-up.

The club will now attempt to build on the victory when they return to Betway Premiership action against Polokwane City. The fixture will be played at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.