Kaizer Chiefs, one of South Africa's most storied football clubs, has faced a series of setbacks on the pitch, contributing to a nine-year trophy drought.
Here are the 10 most disappointing matches for Amakhosi in the last three seasons, complete with the crucial details that have marked these moments:
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1. Al Ahly SC 3-0 Kaizer Chiefs – CAF Champions League Final – 17 July 2021:
Reaching the CAFCL final was a significant achievement, but Chiefs' performance fell short against Ahly, led by South African coach Pitso Mosimane, who clinched their tenth title.
2. Kaizer Chiefs 1-2 Orlando Pirates – Nedbank Cup Semi-finals – 06 May 2023:
In a bid to end their trophy drought, Chiefs were edged out by Pirates, with Kermit Erasmus and Sandile Mthethwa scoring for the Buccaneers, despite Yusuf Maart's goal for Chiefs.
3. Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 Kaizer Chiefs – MTN8 Semi-finals – 23 September 2023:
Despite a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Chiefs succumbed to Sundowns, with Peter Shalulile's bookending goals overshadowing Ashley Du Preez's penalty equalizer.
4. Kaizer Chiefs 0-0 Milford Stallions (4-5 on penalties) – Nedbank Cup First Round – 25 February 2024:
Facing lower-tier Stallions, Chiefs were stunned in a penalty shootout, marking an early exit from the competition.
5. Kaizer Chiefs 0-1 SuperSport United – DStv Premiership – 21 April 2022:
A late goal by Thamsanqa Gabuza dashed Chiefs' title aspirations, leading to the dismissal of coach Stuart Baxter.
6. Orlando Pirates 3-2 Kaizer Chiefs – DStv Premiership – 09 March 2024:
Despite efforts to balance the derby record, Chiefs fell to Pirates, with Monnapule Saleng leading the charge for the Buccaneers.
7. SuperSport United 1-0 Kaizer Chiefs – DStv Premiership – 13 May 2023:
Bradley Grobler's goal denied Chiefs a chance at second place and CAF Champions League football, intensifying pressure on coach Arthur Zwane.
8. Mamelodi Sundowns 4-0 Kaizer Chiefs – DStv Premiership – 13 August 2022:
Chiefs suffered their heaviest league defeat to Sundowns, with Peter Shalulile (2), Gaston Sirino, and Abubeker Nasir scoring.
9. Kaizer Chiefs 1-2 Moroka Swallows – DStv Premiership – 01 May 2023:
Aiming for a top-two finish, Chiefs were surprised by Swallows, with Gregory Damons and Bongani Sam scoring, despite Christian Saile's effort.
10. Richards Bay FC 1-0 Kaizer Chiefs – DStv Premiership – 21 April 2024:
Simphiwe Mcineka's goal extended Chiefs' winless run and pushed them out of the top eight, highlighting their ongoing challenges.
These matches underscore the hurdles Kaizer Chiefs have faced in reclaiming its position at the pinnacle of South African football, leaving fans yearning for a return to the club's glory days, particularly with how Sundowns are dominating in recent years.
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