Kaizer Chiefs’ unbeaten run snapped as Sekhukhune United leapfrog Mamelodi Sundowns to claim Premier Soccer League top spot

Sekhukhune United made an ideal start when Tsepo Matsimbi exploited a defensive miscommunication between Aden McCarthy and Paseko Mako. Breaking free down the right flank, Matsimbi delivered a precise ball to Bradley Grobler, who broke Chiefs’ clean sheet record. 

Their lead didn’t last long. Just 13 minutes into the match, Gaston Sirino played a clever pass to Glody Lilepo, who cut the ball back into the box for Flavio Silva. The striker managed to bundle it over the line, registering his second goal of the campaign.

Amakhosi kept pressing for a second, dominating possession and creating chances. But Babina Noko had goalkeeper Toaster Nsabata to thank for keeping the score level, as he produced key saves to deny efforts from Reeve Frosler and Sirino.

Just four minutes into the second half, Grobler found the net again to put Sekhukhune back in front. The momentum stayed with the visitors as Thabang Monare added a third, capitalising on Chiefs’ defensive frailties that persisted throughout the match.

Coach Nasreddine Nabi shuffled the deck for Chiefs with changes. Substitute Thabo Cele injected fresh energy into the attack. Despite the tactical adjustments and renewed urgency, the Glamour Boys couldn’t overturn the deficit, as the match ended 3-1 in favour of the visitors, who move top of the PSL standings.

Grobler once again proved to be a persistent menace for Amakhosi, extending his impressive scoring record against the Soweto giants with a well-taken brace and an assist on the night.  

His clinical finishing underscored the threat he poses whenever he lines up against Chiefs.

Going from straight clean sheets to letting in three goals in a single outing was a jarring sight for the Amakhosi faithful, especially on home turf. 

Chiefs looked vulnerable both in midfield and at the back, with defensive lapses and a lack of control in central areas contributing to an uncharacteristically shaky performance. 

The Glamour Boys are set to turn their attention to continental competition as they prepare to face Angolan side Kabuscorp in the CAF Confederation Cup. 

The first preliminary round, first-leg showdown will take place at Estádio 11 de Novembro on Saturday, 20 September, with kickoff scheduled for 5:00 PM (South African time).