Kaizer Chiefs’ rise to second place in the Betway Premiership, with a strong defensive record and renewed hope under new leadership, challenges Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance in South African football. Picture: Backpagepix If there’s one thing that gets the blood pumping in South African football, it’s whenKaizer Chiefsare competing for trophies, and with the club’s rise to second in theBetway Premiership, there is renewed hope for the sleeping giant. With their 1-0 win away at Dr Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein overMarumo Gallantson Wednesday, Chiefs moved into second place on the log with 30 points after 15 games.
It was also fitting that their victory was through a wonder strike fromGlody Lilepo, which left an exclamation mark on how far this Chiefs side has come. The only side in the land ahead of AmaKhosi isMamelodi Sundownson 32 points. While Chiefs are some way behind Sundowns in the goal-scoring department— they have scored 15 in as many matches while the champions have banged in 24— it’s at the back where Chiefs have been most impressive.
They have conceded just six goals this season, and therefore have the second-best defence in the league behind Orlando Pirates with five. Of course, Sundowns have won the last eight league titles in a row, so they are expected to do the same again. Few would believe such a conversation would be entertained earlier in the season, when coachNasreddine Nabileft his post suddenly.
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Since then, his assistantsCedric KazeandKhalil Ben Youssefhave taken charge. It also has to be said that Orlando Pirates may be the true sleeping giant, as they are lurking one point behind Chiefs but have two games in hand. Even if Chiefs don’t go on to win the league, it seems there’s every chance the reign of Sundowns might be coming to an end.
Only time will tell. * The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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