Chiefs' hopes for continental success hindered by loss to Richards Bay

Richards Bay FC dealt a setback to Kaizer Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup ambitions, achieving a 2-0 victory in their Betway Premiership match at King Zwelithini Stadium in KZN on Sunday afternoon. 

The Chiefs confront a formidable task to achieve a top-three placement and uphold their hopes for CAF Confederation Cup qualification as their standing increasingly deteriorates. 

Nevertheless, they still hold onto hope, with eight league games left and the chance to qualify by triumphing in the Nedbank Cup, as they have reached the semifinals. 

The Soweto giants controlled the pace of the first half, holding onto substantial possession, while Richards Bay found it difficult to break through their defence and generate clear opportunities. 

Ashley Du Preez nearly scored the first goal with a header that was stopped by Salim Magoola in the 22nd minute. 

The Chiefs continued to push for a goal before halftime, but their attempts proved to be in vain. 

The Natal Rich came back with renewed confidence, approaching the Chiefs’ goal multiple times before ultimately taking the lead when Fikile Gcaba scored in the 48th minute. 

Nasreddine Nabi's team struggled to secure an equalizer even after dominating the match. In the 72nd minute of the match, Yanela Mbuthuma contributed to the score, securing a 2-0 victory for Richards Bay and earning maximum points at home. 

Consequently, Richards Bay moved up the standings from 15th to 11th place, accumulating 24 points after 22 matches. The KZN team will be grateful to have exited the relegation zone following their win against Chiefs. 

In the meantime, the Glamour Boys sit in eighth place on the Betway Premiership standings with 29 points after 22 matches.