DStv Premiership: Kaizer Chiefs Miss Out on Top Five After Barren Draw With Royal AM

• Kaizer Chiefs and Royal AM played out to a barren draw in the DStv Premiership
• AmaKhosi missed out on the chance to leapfrog their derby rivals Orlando Pirates
• Interim coach Cavin Johnson cut a frustrated figure while lamenting missed chances

Kaizer Chiefs squandered an opportunity to climb into the top five of the DStv Premiership as they were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Royal AM at the Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday, February 18.

Despite their recent unbeaten streak in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), which saw them notch up three wins and two draws, the club failed to capitalize on their momentum after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 break.

Reflecting on the match, head coach Cavin Johnson expressed frustration with his team's performance, acknowledging the missed opportunities but stressing the need for improvement moving forward.

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“Yes, we missed very big chances. I think we missed four one-on-ones, Ashley [Du Preez] had four times one-on-ones, he should have scored the goal. We didn’t get it,” he said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

The match was a tale of two halves, with Royal AM asserting dominance in the first 45 minutes while the Chiefs rallied in the second. Despite both teams creating opportunities, neither could find the back of the net.

Royal's attackers Mxolisi Macuphu, Menzi Masuku, and Kabelo Mahlasela constantly threatened the AmaKhosi defence but lacked the finishing touch to convert their chances into goals.

On the other hand, Johnson's side struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with striker Ashley du Preez missing several one-on-one chances against Royal goalkeeper Hugo Nyame, as reported by Times Live.

Despite their disappointment, the Chiefs remain sixth in the league standings, just one point behind Orlando Pirates. A win would have seen them overtake their derby rivals into fifth place.

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Both teams shift focus on the Nedbank Cup last 32, with Royal AM set to face AmaZulu while the Chiefs host Motsepe Foundation Championship side Milford FC at FNB Stadium.

Forgotten Kaizer Chiefs youngster Wandile Duba back

Sports Brief reported that a forgotten Kaizer Chiefs youngster, Wandile Duba, has returned to the squad ahead of their clash with Royal AM.

The 19-year-old is no longer facing an exit from the club and could be in the starting line-up against Royal AM.

Having made his name in the DStv Diski Challenge, former Chiefs boss Arthur Zwane handed Duba his first senior appearance in 2022.