Baartman strikes as Chiefs sink Sekhukhune
Amakhosi make it two Betway Premiership wins out of two.
Kaizer Chiefs triumphed 2-0 against Sekhukhune United in their opening match of the Betway Premiership season, showcasing a resolute second-half performance. 20-year-old Luke Baartman scored his first goal for the team, while Mduduzi Shabalala came off the bench to add a second. Fernando Da Cruz's side rebounded from their MTN8 exit in impressive fashion.
The win sets Chiefs up for their upcoming Premiership clash with Mamelodi Sundowns at the same venue. For Sekhukhune, head coach Cedric Kaze faced a disappointing return to FNB Stadium after starting the campaign with two wins. All-change Da Cruz made five substitutions from Chiefs' MTN8 defeat to Golden Arrows, with Langelihle Phili making his first start since joining the club from Stellenbosch.
In defense, Dillan Solomons started at right back, replacing Thabiso Monyane, and Sibongseni Mthethwa played alongside Lebo Maboe in midfield. Sekhukhune nearly took the lead early on, with Brandon Petersen denying Tshepo Mokoane at the near post. Chiefs' best chance came in the 16th minute, when Maboe's through ball found Asanele Velebayi, but he couldn't find a teammate.
The first half lacked attacking flair from either side, with possession easily conceded by both teams. Sekhukhune suffered a blow in the second half as Vuyo Letlapa was stretchered off due to injury. Despite an effort from Phili in the 53rd minute, which was saved by Toaster Ntsabata, Chiefs eventually broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute.
Phili supplied Solomons with a through ball, who crossed for Baartman to score a delightful finish past Nsabata. Shabalala added a second after being put through by an excellent pass from Siphesihle Ndlovu.
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