Mduduzi Shabalala of Kaizer Chiefs shoots at goal during their Betway Premiership clash against Orbit College at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Monday. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef praised his side’smentality after their come-from-behind 3-1 victory over Orbit College, highlighting a defining response that has strengthened their push for a Top 3 finish.
Amakhosi overturned a first-half deficit at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Monday afternoon, producing a dominant second-half display to secure their third consecutive win in the Betway Premiership. For Youssef, the nature of the performance — rather than just the result — was particularly pleasing.
“I think we expected it to be a difficult game so we weren’t surprised, the first 30 minutes weren’t here and after we conceded we reacted and started playing our football,” he told SuperSport, in the post-match interview
Chiefs endured a slow start, struggling to match Orbit’s early intensity and falling behind midway through the first half.
However, their response — led by Wandile Duba’s equaliser just before half-time — proved to be the turning point. Youssef admitted the opening half fell below expectations but was encouraged by the transformation after the break.
“I’m so happy about the second half, the first half wasn’t good but the second half was excellent for the players, it’s a good mindset to come back and win whilst creating a lot of chances.”
That shift in tempo and intent ultimately overwhelmed Orbit, with Chiefs showing greater urgency, movement and precision in the final third. Goals from Mduduzi Shabalala and Siphesihle Ndlovu completed the turnaround, reflecting the squad’s depth and attacking quality.
The victory lifted Chiefs into third place, firmly placing them in contention for a CAF Confederation Cup spot as the season heads into its decisive phase.
Despite the growing momentum, Youssef was quick to downplay external pressure, particularly given the youthful profile of the squad.
“I’ve been saying the entire season that we’re managing every game like a cup game. We don’t want to put pressure on our players because there’s a few youngsters and we have to protect them.”
The emphasis on managing expectations has been a consistent theme within the Chiefs camp, especially as emerging talents like Duba and Shabalala continue to play key roles.
Their contributions against Orbit once again underlined the club’s long-term vision, blending youth with experience while maintaining competitive results.
As Chiefs build momentum, the focus remains on consistency rather than declarations. However, their current trajectory suggests a side growing in confidence — and belief — at exactly the right time.
With the race for continental qualification intensifying, Youssef’s men appear determined to let their performances do the talking.