Kaizer Chiefs progressed to the quarter-final stage of the Nedbank Cup as they beat ABC Motsepe league side, The Magic FC 3-0 in extra-time. Three key tactical factors in the lower division side taking Amakhosi to the wire were:
- Chiefs' diamond fails to shine
- Amakhosi's slow attack
- Billiat turns the game
Chiefs' diamond fails to shine
Coach Ernst Middendorp has used several different formations since taking over, from 3-5-2 with wing backs, to 4-3-3 with two wide forwards, or even a flat 4-4-2 in the Soweto Derby last week. For this game, he went back to a midfield diamond, the shape he used for his first game in charge against SuperSport United. With the Magic FC playing 4-2-3-1, the lower league side expertly adjusted to match Chiefs. Wade Crowie tucked him from the wing and Danian Wareley dropped deep from number ten to make it four players vs Chiefs' four. This stopped the Soweto giants from dominating the centre of the pitch.
Amakhosi's Slow Attack
With Khama Billiat initially given a rest and only being on the bench, it means Ryan Moon got a rare start. The young forward netted five goals last season as Steve Komphela oversaw a breakout season for the young striker but he has played only 221 minutes in domestic competitions this term. With Leonardo Castro as his partner, the attack lacked pace and the ability to run behind defences. This meant that Siphelele Ntshangase had a tough game as the playmaker excels in splitting defences with his passing. Once speedy Dumisani Zuma came on for Castro, the side had more pace up front. Zuma started 12 games under Giovanni Solinas but has started just once under Middendorp.
Billiat Turns the Game
The introduction of Khama Billiat ended up making the difference for Chiefs. After six goals and four assists in his first 14 games after joining, his form has dipped, particularly in the league. He has only two assists and no goals in his last nine PSL games. In his clash, he won the penalty which Daniel Cardoso converted, played a pass for Zuma who set up Philani Zulu's goal, and then he scored himself from Zuma's cross.
Did the 3-0 scoreline flatter Chiefs? Should Middendorp have started Billiat and Zuma? Let us know your thoughts by commenting below!
