Khune says Duba should have taken both Kaizer Chiefs penalties

Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune believes Wandile Duba should have taken both of the club’s penalties in their Carling Knockout quarter-final victory over Siwelele FC.

Amakhosi advanced to the semi-finals with a hard-fought 2-1 win at New Peter Mokaba Stadium, but Mduduzi Shabalala missed their first spot-kick before Duba converted the second.

Speaking as a pundit on SABC Sport after the match, former goalkeeper Khune questioned the decision to allow Shabalala to take the opening penalty. He later revisited the incident on SoccerZone while defending the 22-year-old playmaker from criticism.

“Mduduzi did well to redeem himself after the penalty miss,” Khune said.

“He then gave the responsibility to Duba, who is high in confidence. I think even the first penalty, Duba should have taken it because he is still high in confidence from the 3-0 against TS Galaxy.

“So for him to handover the responsibility to Mdu, I don’t think it was the right move because Mdu right now, his confidence is very low.”

Shabalala responded to the setback when Chiefs were awarded a second penalty, choosing to hand the responsibility to Duba, who sent the ball past the goalkeeper.

Khune’s comments came amid criticism and online backlash directed at Shabalala, although his performances this season have produced strong figures. The 22-year-old has played in 5 league matches, scoring 2 goals, providing 1 assist and creating 9 key chances.

He has also recorded an 88.4% pass completion rate, underlining his importance to Kaizer Chiefs’ transitional play despite the missed penalty.

Duba, meanwhile, maintained his prolific form in front of goal. The academy graduate’s successful spot-kick was his 7th goal of the season in 9 domestic appearances.

His current scoring rate stands at one goal every 110 minutes, giving head coach Nasreddine Nabi the attacking contribution he needs as Chiefs continue their cup campaign.

The victory secured Kaizer Chiefs’ place in the last four despite the early penalty miss and the pressure that followed.