Kaizer Chiefs Beaten 3-1 by Sekhukhune in First Defeat of the Season

Kaizer Chiefs’ unbeaten start to the season came to a halt on Tuesday evening as they fell 3-1 to Sekhukhune United at FNB Stadium. The result dropped Amakhosi to third place on the Betway Premiership log, while Babina Noko climbed back to the summit.

The clash was packed with attacking football, with both sides creating chances, but Chiefs struggled to keep Sekhukhune’s experienced strike force at bay.

Early Blow and Quick Reply

Sekhukhune took the lead inside five minutes through veteran striker Bradley Grobler, who punished slack defending with a poacher’s finish. Chiefs, who made four changes to their starting line-up, responded swiftly.

Gaston Sirino’s driving run allowed Glody Lilepo to set up Flavio da Silva, who levelled the scores after 12 minutes. The first half ended evenly poised at 1-1.

Grobler Double Stuns Amakhosi

The second half saw Chiefs undone again by Grobler, who netted his second just five minutes after the restart. Six minutes later, Thabang Monare added a third for Sekhukhune, finishing off a lightning counterattack.

Chiefs’ keeper Brandon Petersen, who had kept five clean sheets in the opening five league matches, was left helpless as Sekhukhune’s sharp finishing proved decisive.

What It Means for the Title Race

• Kaizer Chiefs: Now third on 13 points, with four wins, one draw and one defeat. They face a crucial period to prove their title credentials.
• Sekhukhune United: Top of the log with 16 points from six games, showing consistency and belief in their squad depth.
• Mamelodi Sundowns: Sitting just behind, the champions will be wary of Babina Noko’s strong challenge.

Check also: Kaizer Chiefs Players Still Awaiting Their Season Debut

This was a reality check for Amakhosi. While their attacking play showed flashes of promise, defensive lapses cost them dearly. With fixtures against tough opposition coming up, Chiefs will need a quick response to stay in contention. Sekhukhune, meanwhile, look like genuine title contenders. Grobler’s form at 36 underlines his importance, while Monare’s influence in midfield gives the side balance and stability.

Kaizer Chiefs fans will be disappointed, but it’s still early in the season. Can Amakhosi regroup and challenge for the title, or has Sekhukhune set the tone for the campaign?