Khanyisa Mayo marks dream Kaizer Chiefs debut, but Marumo Gallants strike back to deny Premier Soccer League win

Kaizer Chiefs controlled the early tempo of the match, dictating possession and looking to exploit the pace of Ashley Du Preez and new signing Khanyisa Mayo. Despite their dominance, the Soweto giants struggled to convert their attacking momentum into clear-cut chances, often faltering with the final ball in and around the 18-yard area.

Marumo Gallants, on the other hand, were content to absorb the pressure, sitting deep and waiting for opportunities to counter. Chiefs remained vigilant and ensured Gallants found little joy on the break.  

The breakthrough finally came six minutes before halftime when Ashley du Preez threaded a clever ball through to Mayo, who calmly slotted home from close range to mark his debut with a goal. Amakhosi had a chance to double their lead moments later but Gaston Sirino’s penalty was denied by Washington Arubi.  

Heading into the second half with a slender lead, the home side nearly doubled their advantage early on when Mayo delivered a sharp cut-back into the box. However, Sirino failed to capitalise, sending his effort over the crossbar.

The missed opportunity would prove costly as the momentum began to shift. In the 74th minute, Jaisen Clifford produced a moment of brilliance for Gallants, unleashing a pinpoint strike into the top right corner that left Brandon Petersen with no chance, to level the score. 

Despite some late efforts by Chiefs, the score remained 1-1 with the Glamour Boys still third on the Premier Soccer League table.

Mayo wasted no time endearing himself to the Amakhosi faithful, marking his debut with a goal that instantly sparked excitement among Chiefs supporters. His clinical finish was more than just a dream start; it was a statement of intent.

Beyond the goal, Mayo’s overall performance highlighted his ability to unsettle defenders with his movement, pace and sharp instincts in the final third.   

Despite clawing their way back into the contest in the second half, Gallants largely opted to sit deep and absorb the pressure, hoping to catch Chiefs on the break. Their defensive shape remained compact, but they struggled to transition effectively when possession was regained.   

Chiefs face a swift turnaround as they prepare to host Angolan outfit Kabuscorp in the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round.  

The Glamour Boys will be looking to overturn a narrow deficit after falling 1-0 in the first leg last weekend.