Kaizer Chiefs were eliminated 5-4 on penalties by Stellenbosch FC in the Carling Knockout Round of 16 at a packed DHL Stadium on Sunday.
The match concluded in a stalemate after 120 minutes of competitive play, leading to a penalty shootout where Sage Stephens emerged as the savior for Stellenbosch, successfully denying Dillan Solomons’ sudden-death penalty and clinching the win.
This result marked a discouraging moment for the Amakhosi players, who left the pitch disheartened following yet another early exit from the cup competition. The Chiefs joined Mamelodi Sundowns as a significant team eliminated by penalties this weekend, following their defeat to Marumo Gallants.
Post-match, midfielder Sibongiseni Mthethwa shared his thoughts in a SuperSport TV interview, stating, “We are in pain, and we’re very sorry to the fans. We’ll try again in the Nedbank Cup next year.”
The kickoff was delayed by 30 minutes due to heavy crowd congestion, as all 45,000 tickets had been sold, showcasing the excitement surrounding the encounter.
Both teams are representing South Africa in this season’s CAF Confederation Cup, evident in the quality displayed on the field.
Chiefs forward Khanyisa Mayo was keen to make amends following a recent offside error against AmaZulu and nearly struck first, hitting the crossbar in the 15th minute. Shortly thereafter, Dillan Solomons nearly found the net with a long-range effort that skimmed the side-netting.
The first half was characterized by aggressive attacking from both sides, yet the elusive first goal remained out of reach. The pace continued after the break, with both teams creating chances. Mayo made another attempt, this time thwarted by goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke who came off his line effectively.
In the audience, Mayo’s father, former PSL champion Patrick Mayo, watched on proudly as his son made several close calls.
Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala also showcased skill with a clever turn before delivering a dangerous cross, narrowly missing Mayo.
With no goals scored, the match progressed into extra time, where attacking opportunities persisted but goals remained scarce.
Late in extra time, a controversial moment occurred when Stellenbosch’s Thapelo Mokobodi was sent off after pulling down Pule Mmodi, who was breaking through toward goal. Chiefs pushed for a decisive goal, and Gaston Sirino nearly found it, but Stephens made a remarkable save.
Ultimately, the match reached the penalty shootout phase, where Stellenbosch maintained composure to secure a 5-4 victory, advancing to the quarterfinals.
Penalty Shootout Sequence
Stellenbosch:
- Andre de Jong – saved
- Thabo Moloisane – scored
- Mthetheleli Mthiyane – scored
- Sage Stephens – scored
- Athenkosi Mcaba – scored
- Sanele Barns – scored
Kaizer Chiefs:
- Gaston Sirino – scored
- Thabo Cele – scored
- Aden McCarthy – scored
- Bradley Cross – scored
- Tashreeq Morris – saved
- Dillan Solomons – saved
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