Kaizer Chiefs will head into the new Betway Premiership season full of confidence after edging Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC 1-0 to lift the Toyota Cup at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Phokeng on Sunday.
While the match was officially a friendly, it offered Amakhosi a valuable test against quality opposition and provided encouraging signs that the team’s preparations under new coach Fernando Da Cruz are beginning to take shape.
Moment of brilliance
Mfundo Vilakazi proved the match-winner with a moment of individual brilliance in the 17th minute.
The youngster controlled a loose ball on his chest after Scottland failed to clear a Lebohang Maboe cross, powered past defender Tijani Al-Ameen and calmly guided his finish beyond the goalkeeper into the far corner.
Kaizer Chiefs showed plenty of positives throughout the contest, displaying improved organisation, neat passing combinations and defensive discipline after returning from their pre-season camp in Spain.
New signing Adolf Mtasingwa made a solid first appearance in midfield alongside Maboe, while Thabo Monyane’s pace caused constant problems down the right flank.
At the back, Bradley Cross and Inacio Miguel coped well with Scottland’s attacking threats, with goalkeeper Brandon Petersen quick off his line whenever danger developed.
Several changes
After the break, both coaches made several changes, although Kaizer Chiefs continued to defend resolutely despite Scottland enjoying more possession.
Etiosa Ighodaro and Wandile Duba looked lively going forward, while Vilakazi and Luke Baartman remained dangerous on the counter-attack.
Most importantly for Amakhosi, they held firm to secure the victory and the Toyota Cup trophy.
Although there is still work to be done before the competitive campaign gets underway, the performance and result will provide a welcome confidence boost as Kaizer Chiefs turn their attention to Saturday, 1 August’s Betway Premiership opener against Kruger United in Mbombela.
Kick-off is at 20:15.
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