Chiefs crowned cup champions

KAIZER Chiefs showed why they are regarded as South Africa’s cup specialists when they wore down holders Ajax Cape Town 2-1 to win the Telkom Knockout in front of a capacity 50 000 crowd at a wet Absa Stadium in a hard-fought cup final on Saturday night.

The slippery pitch did not worry either side. But Ajax, who created more chances in the first half, have only themselves to blame for failing to capitalise and for two defensive blunders that led to both goals.It was Chiefs’ first trophy of the season and also the first for coach Vladimir Vermezovic since taking charge of Amakhosi at the start of the season. It was Ajax’s second cup final of the season. They were hammered 6-0 by Golden Arrows in the MTN8 final played at the Orlando Stadium in October.Chiefs midfielder Mandla Masango made it 1-0 against the run of play, thanks to a mistake by Ajax veteran keeper and captain Hans Vonk, before halftime. In the second half, Chiefs’ Knowledge Musona did brilliantly to draw Vonk and chip the ball into the net to make it 2-0 and set Amakhosi on their way to winning their first title of the season.Ajax substitute Diyo Sibisi gave the Urban Warriors a lifeline when he made it 2-1 with five minutes remaining. But it was too little too late and Chiefs held on for another major cup triumph. – Nampa-Sapa

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.

The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.