Asanele Velebayi’s introduction sparked a tactical shift that allowed Kaizer Chiefs to break their four-match winless streak against Durban City. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze praised the impact of substitute Asanele Velebayi after Amakhosi edged Durban City FC in a hard-fought Betway Premiership clash at FNB Stadium on Sunday.
The narrow victory allowed Chiefs to breathe again after a frustrating run of four matches without a win, with Glody Lilepo producing the decisive moment in the second half to hand the Soweto giants maximum points. For Kaze, the result was important — but equally pleasing was the way his side controlled long periods of the contest before a nervy closing phase.
Chiefs dominated possession and territory for large spells, probing patiently in search of the breakthrough, but found Durban City difficult to break down in the opening half. The visitors stayed compact and disciplined, forcing Amakhosi to circulate the ball across midfield without creating the kind of clear chances their territorial dominance deserved.
It prompted a tactical tweak at the break.
Looking to inject urgency and greater attacking thrust, the technical team turned to Velebayi at the start of the second half — a move that immediately altered the rhythm of the encounter. The winger, who has largely played a supporting role this season, brought a refreshing sense of directness to Chiefs’ forward play.
In a campaign where game time has been limited — with just nine appearances so far — the 23-year-old seized his opportunity to make a statement.
Rather than playing safe, Velebayi repeatedly ran at defenders, forcing Durban City’s backline to retreat and defend deeper than they had in the first half. His willingness to take on opponents one-on-one and deliver crosses from wide areas stretched the visitors’ defensive structure and created pockets of space that had not previously existed.
Velebayi was also instrumental in the move that eventually produced the winning goal.
His aggressive approach in wide areas helped Chiefs build momentum in attack and ultimately created the opening that allowed Lilepo to strike the decisive blow.
It is the kind of attacking spark Amakhosi have desperately needed. Despite their stature in the Betway Premiership, Chiefs have struggled badly in front of goal this season.
The Glamour Boys have managed just 17 goals in 19 league matches, a return that underlines their difficulties in the final third. Velebayi’s performance may, therefore, offer a glimpse of a possible solution.
By stretching defences with his pace, direct running and willingness to attack defenders, the winger adds a dimension that Chiefs have often lacked this season.
Next up for Amakhosi is a trip to face Magesi FC on Saturday, where they will look to build momentum following their return to winning ways.
The fixture presents another opportunity for Chiefs to address their attacking struggles and possibly give Velebayi a bigger role after his encouraging display against Durban City. For Kaze and the technical team, the focus will be on turning this victory into a consistent run of results as the season enters a crucial phase in the Betway Premiership.