Chiefs edge Royal AM to set up Nedbank Cup semi-final date with Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs’ trophy hunt continues after they came from behind to beat Royal AM 2-1 last night and set up a semifinals date with biggest rivals Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup.

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Chiefs had to dig deep to overcome a motivated and unrelenting Royal AM side at Chatsworth Stadium in Durban in a quarterfinals match.

Stellenbosch FC, who caused a big upset eliminating Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, will face Sekhukhune United in the other semifinal.

The dates and venues for the semifinals will be confirmed by the Premier Soccer League in due course.

The quarterfinal game at Chatsworth was played at a high pace, but didn’t have much chances in the early stages. There were a few half chances though.

Ashley Du Preez looked to put Chiefs ahead in the 24th minute when he did well to disposes Royal AM defender Mlungisi Sikakane just outside his box. He rounded the defender, and cut inside.

But just as he was about to unleash a shot with his left foot, Siphesihle Msomi managed to block it.

And four minutes after that, Royal AM took the lead. Samuel Manganyi, who had just replaced Happy Jele who was injured and stretchered off, rose unmarked to head home from a Shaune Mogaila corner kick.

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Chiefs found the equaliser in the 35th minute when a careless header from Thabo Matlaba went into his own net.

Siyethemba Sithebe was unlucky to see his long range effort hit the crossbar with Xolani Ngcobo beaten in the 76th minute.

Mxolisi Macuphu had the Chiefs supporters gasping for air in the 86th minute when he sent a stinging shot towards Brandon Petersen’s goal. But his shot went just wide.

Chiefs took the lead 12 minutes into the first half of extra time. Yusuf Maart converted from the penalty spot after Royal AM keeper had fouled Mduduzi Shabalala inside the box.

Chiefs managed to hold on to the end to eke out an important win that keeps them in the hunt for silverware that has been elusive for eight years now.