Kaizer Chiefs set up Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has urged Mduduzi Shabalala to move on from his penalty miss after confirming that his side will face Mamelodi Sundowns with the aim of reaching the Carling Knockout Cup final.

Chiefs secured their place in the semi-finals with a 2-1 win over Siwelele on Sunday evening, overcoming an early setback before a late winner sent them through.

Siyabonga Ndebele put Siwelele ahead, but Wandile Duba restored parity from the penalty spot. Substitute Asanele Velebayi then scored the decisive goal in the 84th minute to complete Chiefs’ comeback.

Shabalala’s missed penalty was one of the main talking points from the quarter-final. The midfielder sent his first-half attempt over the crossbar after Chiefs had been awarded a spot-kick.

Da Cruz, however, was quick to offer his support and reminded Shabalala that even leading players have failed to score from penalties in important matches.

“There are big players who missed penalties in big competitions, in big finals. It happened today against Shabba,” said Da Cruz.

“He can be disappointed, but he needs to keep his head up and keep playing his game because it’s an element we need and we want to rely on.”

The semi-final draw has paired Chiefs with the CAF Champions League champions, Sundowns, meaning Da Cruz’s team will travel for a difficult fixture.

The other last-four tie will see Stellenbosch FC host Orlando Pirates.

Da Cruz acknowledged the quality of the opposition his side will face, but said matches against the country’s strongest teams are important to Chiefs’ continued development.

“We knew we were going to play a big team, whether it’s Sundowns, Orlando [Pirates], Stellenbosch or AmaZulu,” he said.

“We know it’s going to be a difficult game, but it’s also a game that will allow us to grow. We need to play these games to improve, but we’re going to play this game with the intention of qualifying for the final.”

Chiefs’ response to falling behind against Siwelele will also have pleased Da Cruz, with the side showing the character required to turn the quarter-final around.

Their victory keeps them in contention for the Carling Knockout Cup, while Shabalala will now look to respond in the semi-final after being backed by his manager to continue contributing to the team.