The Kaizer Chiefs team advanced to the next stage of the Carlin Cup after defeating TS Galaxy 3-0 in the Round of 16 match, which took place on Tuesday evening at the FNB Stadium. This victory gives the team confidence ahead of the upcoming derby in Soweto against fierce rivals Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
Vandile Duba was the main hero of the 'Amakhosi' match, scoring his first hat-trick in the top division. Spectators not only voted for him as Man of the Match but also gave him a standing ovation, chanting 'Duba, Duba, Duba' after he left the field.
In the second half, Chiefs not only scored goals but also provided valuable playing time to some players who were previously on the bench due to injuries, such as Flavio Silva. This factor should provide the team with more options for use in the upcoming derby.
Before this match, Chiefs were under pressure due to a series of setbacks, including elimination from the AFC Confederation last Friday. However, at the start of the game, the team showed a sluggish start, not demonstrating urgency in the first half.
Fans were clearly disappointed with this game, shouting at the players and the team. Coach Fernando da Cruz, meanwhile, valued every created opportunity and successful tackle, urging his team to act.
Since chances were few, both goalkeepers barely participated in the first half. This probably pleased Da Cruz, given that he made several defensive changes, including giving Rashvin Dortle the starting spot, who had been on the bench for over a year due to injury.
Chiefs returned in the second half with new energy and began to dominate the visitors. They quickly got a goal when Vandile Duba finished a cross from Pule Mmodi in the penalty area. The team continued to apply pressure, and they managed to score again when Mdudzu Shabalala was awarded a penalty after a foul by Veluke Zulu in the box. Vilakazi converted the penalty, but the ball hit the post, after which Duba reacted quickly and scored the rebound.
Duba completed his hat-trick by bypassing the offside trap and receiving a pass from Shabalala, after which he was one-on-one with goalkeeper Melusi Mathebula, whom he beat with precision and power.
Mathebula's night was interrupted by an injury that forced him off the field, and he was replaced by Sifo Maseti, who experienced almost no pressure since Chiefs had effectively secured the win. Thanks to the three goals scored and the clean play this evening, Chiefs will gain a huge morale boost before Saturday's derby.
