Kaizer Chiefs reach Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals after comeback win

Kaizer Chiefs came from behind to beat Siwelele FC 2-1 at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Sunday and reach the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup for the first time since 2024.

Siyabonga Ndebele gave Siwelele the lead in the 11th minute, but Wandile Duba equalised from the penalty spot in first-half injury time before Asanele Velebayi scored the winning goal in the closing stages.

Chiefs made two changes in defence from the side beaten by Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby. Dillan Solomons and Rushine Dortely came in for the suspended Inacio Miguel and Reeve Frosler, while Nkosingiphile Ngcobo returned to the squad among the substitutes.

The hosts threatened almost immediately, with Pule Mmodi forcing Jody February into a save in the second minute. However, Siwelele soon began to find space in possession, with Vincent Pule causing problems for the Chiefs defence.

Pule tested Brandon Petersen in the 10th minute, but the goalkeeper blocked the effort with his feet and conceded a corner. Manelis Jeza delivered the resulting set-piece and, after the ball appeared to have been cleared, Ndebele reacted quickest to the rebound and put Siwelele in front.

Chiefs responded with greater urgency, although Lebohang Maboe failed to hit the target from a set-piece in the 17th minute.

Maboe then won a penalty in the 36th minute after being fouled inside the area. Mduduzi Shabalala took responsibility but missed the target from 12 yards.

Chiefs were awarded another penalty deep into first-half stoppage time after Mfundo Vilakazi was brought down in the box. Duba converted to level the score before the interval.

Solomons had an early opportunity to put Chiefs ahead after the restart but shot wide. He was presented with another chance shortly after the hour mark when he took a free-kick, but that effort also missed the target.

Mmodi went close from outside the area during the second half but could not find the target.

With the game appearing likely to remain level, Velebayi settled the tie inside the final 10 minutes. He finished from a tight angle to complete Chiefs’ comeback and send them into the last four of the competition.