Christian Saile's winner gives Kaizer Chiefs victory over Swallows in the traditional Soweto Derby

1024x768_christian-saile-scores-against-swallows-november-2023-jpg

Christian Saile scored deep in the second half to give Cavin Johnson his second victory since taking over as Amakhosi interim coach. The victory lifts Chiefs to sixth spot in the Premiership with 17 points from 13 games.

Chiefs were the dominant side in the opening half, creating many opportunities but failing to find the target. Ranga Chivaviro and Yusuf Maart were among players who had opportunities to test Swallows keeper Daniel Akpeyi but their attempts went wide instead.

While Swallows were subjected to defending, they had chances too, including when striker Tshegofatsho Mabasa forced a fine save from Bruce Bvuma in the 28th minute.

Midfielder Sibongiseni Mthethwa, who was a standout performer for Amakhosi, came close to breaking the deadlock with three minutes to the break through his long range shot Akpeyi away from his goalmouth. The effort missed the target saving the Nigerian goalkeeper’s blushes.

Chiefs continued to be strong in the second half and looked the more threatening of the two sides when on attack.

They continued to create chances, but luck kept on evading them upfront as Pule Mmodi had his shot cleared off the line by a Swallows defender in the 78th.

The deadlock was finally broken when Saile made no mistake with only Akpeyi to beat.

The Democratic Republic of Congo forward was set up by Maart, who dispossessed Keegan Phillips in Swallows’ half and charged forward before finding Saile in the box.