Nedbank Cup
By Sello Masilo
Kaizer Chiefs have secured a place in the next round of the Nedbank Cup after a comfortable 4-0 win over Free Agents FC at the FNB Stadium on Sunday evening.
The Amakhosi have made a habit of embarrassing losses to lower-league opposition in the Nedbank Cup in recent years, but they successfully avoided this particular banana skin against a third-tier opponent thanks to a first-half brace from Pule Mmodi, as well as second-half goals from Ignacio Miguel and Ranga Chivaviro.
Chiefs almost got off to a flyer, with midfielder Nkosingiphile Ngcobo hitting the woodwork early on, but ultimately they only had to wait until the 18th minute to claim the lead, as Pule Mmodi stabbed home the opening goal after running onto a long ball over the top from goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma.
Mmodi made it 2-0 in the 26th minute, showing good composure to wrong-foot Agents goalkeeper Ugonna Igidimba before easily finishing, having been unselfishly set-up by Wandile Duba.
Mmodi spurned the chance for a hat-trick inside the opening half-hour when he rounded Igidimba but then squared for Happy Mashiane, whose heavy touch let the lower league side off the hook.
Agents created just once chance through the first half, as Nelson Ndlovu played in a fine low cross from the left to pick out the run of Sello Hlabitwa on 34 minutes, but Bvuma made a brave save at the feet of the attacker.
The Amakhosi did have one further concern in the first half, as Duba was forced off due to injury and replaced by Ranga Chivaviro just before the break – throwing doubt on the former’s availability for the Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates next weekend.
Both teams made changes at the start of the second half, and Agents did have some more attacking impetus to their play in the opening minutes, but Chiefs added a third goal shortly after the hour mark when defender Ignacio Miguel expertly headed home Mashiane’s cross.
The goal had a hint of offside about it and sparked strong protests from Agents, which ultimately resulted in a straight red card for Saheed Adebayo – leaving the lower league side down to 10 men for the remainder of the match.
The Amakhosi put further gloss on the score line with a fourth goal in the 83rd minute, as George Matlou stole the ball high up the pitch before feeding Chivaviro, who finished from inside the penalty area to wrap up the scoring.
Kaizer Chiefs (2) 4 (Mmodi 18’ 26’, Miguel 62’, Chivaviro 83’)
Free Agents FC 0
Chiefs: Bvuma, Frosler, Miguel, Ditlhokwe, Mashiane (Cross 87’), Maart (Mthethwa 46’), Ngcobo (Sirino 46’), Matlou, Vilakazi, Mmodi (Potsane 71’), Duba (Chivaviro 45’)
Agents: Igidimba (Shabalala 46’), Moloi (Simelane 46’), Sithole, Sello, Mokate, Adebayo, Motlhoiwa (Mphumela 46’), Dhladhla, Hlabitwa (Mogoshi 80’), Ndlovu, Mosweu (Sebopa 46’)
Kaizer Chiefs’ dominant performance against Free Agents FC not only secured their progression in the Nedbank Cup but also showcased the team’s depth and tactical prowess. The match, held at the iconic FNB Stadium, was a testament to the Amakhosi’s preparation and determination to avoid past pitfalls in the tournament.
Match Highlights:
• Early Pressure: The game commenced with Chiefs asserting their dominance. Nkosingiphile Ngcobo’s early attempt rattled the woodwork, signaling the team’s attacking intent.
• Opening Goal: In the 18th minute, a precise long ball from goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma found Pule Mmodi, who showcased his finishing skills to give Chiefs the lead.
• Doubling the Advantage: Just eight minutes later, Mmodi capitalized on a well-placed pass from Wandile Duba, skillfully maneuvering past goalkeeper Ugonna Igidimba to net his second goal.
• Defensive Resilience: Despite a few offensive efforts from Free Agents FC, including a notable attempt by Sello Hlabitwa, Chiefs’ defense remained unyielding, with Bvuma making crucial saves.
• Second-Half Surge: The introduction of fresh legs in the second half kept the momentum in Chiefs’ favor. Ignacio Miguel’s header in the 62nd minute, followed by Ranga Chivaviro’s strike in the 83rd, sealed the comprehensive victory.
Tactical Insights:
Chiefs’ strategy was evident from the outset: apply relentless pressure, exploit the flanks, and maintain defensive solidity. The midfield trio orchestrated play efficiently, linking defense and attack seamlessly. The full-backs provided width, allowing wingers like Mmodi to cut inside and create goal-scoring opportunities.
Player Performances:
• Pule Mmodi: His brace was a highlight, but his off-the-ball movement and ability to find pockets of space were equally impressive.
• Bruce Bvuma: Beyond his assist, Bvuma’s command of the penalty area and shot-stopping abilities ensured a clean sheet.
• Ignacio Miguel: A rock in defense and a threat during set-pieces, evidenced by his well-taken header.
Looking Ahead:
This victory sets a positive tone as Chiefs prepare for the upcoming Soweto derby against Orlando Pirates. The team’s cohesion and confidence will be crucial as they aim to carry this momentum forward.
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