It took just two minutes for the “Glamour Boys” to make their mark at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Following a frantic start, Brazilian striker Flavio Silva rattled the woodwork with a powerful header, only for the predatory Pule Mmodi to pounce on the rebound and bundle the ball home.
That early blitz proved to be the difference. Despite Zesco United throwing everything forward in the second half—including a double tactical substitution before the break—the Amakhosi defense, led by an inspired Brandon Petersen, stood like a rock. This 1-0 victory marks the first time a South African side has beaten Zesco on their own turf, moving Chiefs to 4 points and level with Zamalek in Group D.
Kaizer Chiefs Player Ratings
The co-coaches, Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, will be delighted with the tactical discipline shown today. Here is how the players fared:
Starting XI
- Brandon Petersen (9/10): Man of the Match. His world-class save in the 85th minute preserved the lead. Three consecutive clean sheets now.
- Dillan Solomons (7/10): Solid shift at right-back. Provided pace on the overlap and kept the Zesco wingers quiet.
- Inácio Miguel (8/10): A commanding presence. His aerial dominance was crucial against Zesco’s long-ball tactics late in the game.
- Zitha Kwinika (7.5/10): Read the game perfectly. Formed a formidable partnership with Miguel.
- Aden McCarthy (7/10): The youngster showed maturity beyond his years on the left flank under immense pressure.
- Lebohang Maboe (8/10): The engine room. His work rate in the sweltering Zambian heat was vital for the transition.
- Siphesihle Ndlovu (7/10): Disciplined and combative. Broke up play effectively in the center.
- Mfundo Vilakazi (6.5/10): Showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with the bumpy pitch at times.
- Pule Mmodi (8.5/10): Right place, right time. His goal has completely changed the outlook of Chiefs’ continental season.
- Khanyisa Mayo (7/10): Linked up well with the midfield, though he didn’t get many clear-cut sights of goal.
- Flavio Silva (7.5/10): Unlucky not to score. His header created the goal, and his hold-up play was top-tier.
Notable Substitutes
- Mduduzi Shabalala (6.5/10): Brought on to provide fresh legs and ball retention in the closing stages.
- Thulani Mabaso (6/10): Helped solidify the midfield for the final 15 minutes.
- Ashley Du Preez (5/10): Late cameo to stretch the Zesco defense.
