Kaizer Chiefs Edge Gallants 1–0 to Keep Pressure on Sundowns
Bloemfontein – Kaizer Chiefs moved up to second place on the Betway Premiership table after grinding out a narrow 1–0 victory over Marumo Gallants at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium on Wednesday night. A moment of brilliance from Glody Lilepo in the second half proved decisive, handing the Glamour Boys all three points.
The fixture, postponed from Tuesday because of logistical challenges, followed a familiar pattern as Chiefs enjoyed the bulk of possession but found it difficult to unlock Gallants’ stubborn defence. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 67th minute when Lilepo struck a sublime, curling effort from a tight angle that drifted over Washington Arubi and into the far corner. The goal ended the Congolese winger’s 11-match league drought and lifted Amakhosi to 30 points from 15 outings, keeping them firmly in the title chase just two points behind Mamelodi Sundowns. Gallants, meanwhile, remain in mid-table as they continue to search for consistency.
Chiefs Control Early, Gallants Hold Firm
Chiefs dictated play from the outset, circulating the ball confidently but struggling to carve out clear chances. Siyabulela Velebayi came closest in the opening quarter-hour with a fierce long-range attempt that skimmed just over the crossbar.
Gallants, under Dan Malesela, were disciplined and organised at their adopted Bloemfontein base, absorbing pressure and looking to counter when opportunities arose. Despite Chiefs’ territorial advantage, the first half ended scoreless, with frustration evident among the visiting supporters.
Nasreddine Nabi would have taken encouragement from his side’s control but remained disappointed by the lack of a cutting edge, as Peter Shalulile and company worked hard without reward. Gallants’ experienced backline stood strong, giving their fans belief that a result was possible.
Lilepo Lights Up the Second Half
The stalemate was eventually shattered by a moment of quality. Picking up the ball near the right touchline, level with the penalty area, Lilepo skipped past his marker and sent in what appeared to be a cross. Instead, the ball swerved wickedly beyond Arubi and dipped into the top corner, stunning both the defence and the goalkeeper.
The goal sparked celebrations among the Chiefs camp and shifted momentum decisively. Gallants threw men forward in search of an equaliser, but Amakhosi’s backline remained composed to preserve the clean sheet.
Maboe Leads by Example
Lebohang Maboe was deservedly named Betway Man of the Match after a commanding display in midfield. He set the tempo, disrupted Gallants’ rhythm and linked play effectively, providing balance on a night when space was at a premium.
His performance underlined his growing influence at Naturena, particularly in tight encounters where determination and discipline are just as vital as flair.