Kaizer Chiefs draw with Stellenbosch FC to extend winless league run

Kaizer Chiefs were held to a 1-1 draw by Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium on Tuesday night, extending their run without a league victory to three matches in the Betway Premiership.

Amakhosi have drawn their past three league games and collected just two points from their last three outings. Fernando Da Cruz’s team remain fourth in the table and unbeaten this season, but must now turn their attention to a CAF Confederation Cup trip to Zambia to face Red Arrows on Saturday.

Stellenbosch climbed to seventh after extending their unbeaten run to four matches. Gavin Hunt’s side will next play on October 30, when they face Chippa United.

The visitors made the brighter start and almost opened the scoring in the 21st minute. Quwan Plaatjies found Sinoxolo Kwayiba, whose right-footed shot beat Renaldo Leaner but struck the crossbar.

Chiefs gradually improved as the first half progressed. Wandile Duba was denied by Sage Stephens after being released through on goal shortly after the half-hour mark, before the Stellenbosch goalkeeper made another important stop to keep out Inacio Miguel’s effort from close range.

There was no breakthrough before the interval, but Stellenbosch took the lead only three minutes after the restart.

Kwayiba finished from close range in the 48th minute after Terrence Mashego delivered a quality cross from the left. The Mamelodi Sundowns loanee, who was later named Man of the Match, provided the decisive contribution as the visitors moved in front.

Chiefs levelled nine minutes later. Reeve Frosler lifted the ball over the defence for Mduduzi Shabalala, who brought it under control, went beyond Siviwe Nkwali and struck past Stephens at the near post.

It was Shabalala’s second goal of the season and gave Chiefs renewed momentum as they pushed for a winner.

Both managers made changes as the match became increasingly open. Flavio Da Silva came on for Chiefs after a two-month absence, while Stellenbosch brought on experienced striker Bradley Grobler.

The home side came close to completing the comeback when Asanele Velebayi unleashed a powerful effort, but Stephens produced another strong save to deny him.

Late pressure from both teams failed to produce a decisive goal. Chiefs were left frustrated by another dropped opportunity at home, while Stellenbosch returned to the Cape with a valuable point.

Chiefs will now focus on their continental campaign against Red Arrows in Zambia. Stellenbosch have a longer period to prepare for their next league fixture, against Chippa United on October 30.