Kaizer Chiefs faced a surprising exit from the Nedbank Cup after enduring a goalless draw against Milford FC, followed by a 5-4 defeat in a penalty shootout. The riveting last 32 tie unfolded at FNB Stadium in Nasrec on Sunday, leaving football enthusiasts on the edge of their seats.
Milford FC’s goalkeeper, Siphamandla Hleza, emerged as the hero of the match, delivering a man-of-the-match performance and sealing the victory with a crucial penalty.
Hleza showcased his shot-stopping prowess throughout the game, notably saving a Ranga Chivaviro spot-kick during extra time.
The penalty shootout saw Edson Castillo as the unfortunate player to miss, adding a dramatic twist to the proceedings.
The encounter began with both teams probing each other cautiously, but the intensity quickly escalated with a flurry of chances. In the 5th minute, Christian Saile’s dynamic run down the right flank set up Ashley Du Preez, who inexplicably struck the crossbar from close range with an open goal beckoning.
Kaizer Chiefs continued to press, and in the following minutes, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo unleashed a powerful shot from 20 yards, narrowly missing the post. Moments later,
Happy Mashiane’s break down the left presented Mduduzi Shabalala with an opportunity, but a mistimed kick allowed Milford defender Vusumuzi Mthabela to clear Castillo’s subsequent shot off the line.
The drama heightened during the penalty shootout, with both teams finding the net in the initial attempts. However, Castillo’s unfortunate miss for Kaizer Chiefs, soaring his kick over the crossbar, opened the door for Milford FC.
Bulelani Sigomoshe, Milford’s substitute, initially had his penalty saved by Chiefs’ goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma. Still, a retake was ordered as the referee deemed Bvuma to have encroached off his line too early. Sigomoshe capitalized on the second chance, securing Milford FC’s triumph.
The unexpected turn of events left Kaizer Chiefs and their supporters stunned, as Milford FC celebrated a memorable victory in the Nedbank Cup last 32 encounter.
