Were Mamelodi Sundowns robbed? Former FIFA referee explains how Kaizer Chiefs 'benefited' from Ashley Du Preez’s goal against Brazilians in Nedbank Cup semi-final - 'The flag should come up for offside'

Kaizer Chiefs got their revenge against Mamelodi Sundowns by knocking them out of the Nedbank Cup semi-final to secure a spot in the final.

Masandawana had dominated the season’s previous encounters, winning all three matches against Amakhosi.

However, this time Nasreddine Nabi’s side came prepared and had the last laugh.

Chiefs will now face arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the final—a showdown loaded with history and high stakes.

The Glamour Boys are chasing their first piece of silverware in ten years, and a win over the defending champions would be a massive achievement.

Former referee Victor Hlungwani, now an analyst, weighed in on the controversial match-winning goal.

He told SoccerZone that Ashley du Preez’s goal should not have counted, stating it was clearly offside.

“We see a goal scored. The offside rule says when an opponent is nearer to his opponent’s goal than the ball and the second-last opponent,” Hlungwani said on SABC.

“[In this instance] who is nearer to the goal line? You can see Du Preez is there. When George Matlou crosses the ball he is nearer to the opponent’s goal than the ball and the second-last opponent. So that is offside.

“So we’ll wait for interference, because we say it is not an offence to be in an offside position. When the ball is played, you play the ball, you are not interfering with play. [Du Preez was, by finishing], therefore the flag should come up for offside.

“Some say it’s not an offside [in this instance] because it’s from a square ball. No, that’s only when a player is here [indicates crosser in front of the receiver on the screen]. No-one can be offside when they are behind the ball.

“But this player is in front [of the ball].”

Nabi reaching his first final in his debut South African season is a strong statement of intent.

Despite an inconsistent league campaign, he’s shown the pedigree of a coach capable of delivering silverware.

This cup run might be the spark Chiefs need to restore their winning culture.

Ending a decade-long trophy drought would not only lift the team but also revive belief among supporters.

With Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns thriving, Chiefs returning to glory would be massive for the competitiveness of South African football.

Chiefs will travel to Gqeberha to face Chippa United in a crucial league clash.

A win could strengthen their push for a respectable top-eight finish this season.