Kaizer Chiefs delivered a dominant second-half display to secure a convincing 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy at FNB Stadium on Tuesday night, advancing to the quarter-finals of the Carling Knockout. The standout performance of the evening came from rising star Wandile Duba, whose second-half hat-trick dismantled the opposition and sealed a crucial cup win for the Soweto giants.

The Round of 16 clash started as a tightly contested affair. During a competitive opening 45 minutes, Chiefs attempted to dictate the tempo in front of their home supporters, creating several promising goal-scoring opportunities. Duba initially forced TS Galaxy goalkeeper Melusi Mathebula into a sharp save with a powerful long-range strike, while teammates Mduduzi Shabalala and Pule Mmodi actively searched for openings in the final third. Despite controlling much of the possession, Chiefs were unable to break through a resilient TS Galaxy defense, leaving the match goalless at the halftime interval.

The dynamic shifted dramatically shortly after the restart. In the 48th minute, Mmodi broke down the wing and sent a precise low cross into the penalty area, where Duba reacted quickly to slot the ball past Mathebula and break the deadlock. The opening goal energised Amakhosi, who immediately pushed to extend their advantage.

Chiefs were awarded a penalty a short while later after Shabalala was brought down inside the box following a driving run. Substitute Mfundo Vilakazi stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Mathebula anticipated the shot and made a fine save. However, Duba proved to be the sharpest player on the pitch, pouncing on the loose rebound to convert his second goal of the night and give his side a comfortable two-goal cushion.

Duba later completed his hat-trick to put the result completely beyond reach, capping off an exceptional individual performance. The emphatic win provides much-needed relief and confidence for head coach Fernando Da Cruz, whose squad entered the fixture under pressure following their recent exit from the CAF Confederation Cup at the hands of Zambian side Red Arrows. With a place in the last eight secured, Chiefs remain firmly in contention for domestic silverware.

source:

https://x.com/MorningLiveSABC/status/2115317655842574805