FT | PSL: Kaizer Chiefs 2-1 Stellenbosch FC.

The stage is set for an exciting encounter between Kaizer Chiefs and Stellenbosch FC at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg. Both teams are keen to improve their standings, with just a point separating them on the PSL table. Chiefs have a strong recent record over Stellies, having won four of the last six meetings, although Stellenbosch did grab a 1-0 win away to Chiefs last season.As the game kicks off, Chiefs quickly take control of the ball, but Stellenbosch look to apply pressure, forcing the home side to defend. The early moments see both teams exchanging possession, with Toure of Stellenbosch coming up with a solid challenge to win the ball. Chiefs counter-attack, with Cross having a chance inside the box, but he blazes it over the bar under pressure from two defenders.Stellenbosch continue to build, with some neat passing moves, but Bvuma in goal for Chiefs is untroubled as he collects a poorly executed chip into the box. Moments later, the game sees a bit of physicality, as Adams and Mthetwa collide while challenging for the ball. The referee calls a free kick in Stellenbosch’s favor, though there’s no sign of malicious intent, and no yellow card is shown.As the match progresses, it becomes clear that both sides are willing to take risks. A dangerous corner from Basadien threatens Chiefs’ goal, but the ball is narrowly avoided by a defender. Chiefs push forward but are met with solid defensive work from Stellies. However, at the 21st minute, a well-executed move from Stellenbosch results in the opening goal. Titus finds space near the byline and chips a ball into the box for Lekoloane, who calmly taps it home.The visitors are ahead, but Chiefs respond quickly. A corner in the 28th minute is whipped in by Shabalala, and Ditlhokwe heads it back for Duba, who finishes it off with a well-timed header to level the score at 1-1.Both sides make substitutions due to injuries and tactical changes, and the game remains tightly contested. The intensity picks up in the second half, with Shabalala almost putting Chiefs ahead, but his shot is deflected wide. However, in the 57th minute, Chiefs do take the lead. A precise pass from Vilakazi finds Duba in the box, and he calmly slots it past Stephens to give Chiefs the advantage.Stellenbosch push forward in search of an equalizer, with Jabaar coming close with a powerful shot that Bvuma expertly saves. Stellies make several more changes, trying to force their way back into the game, but the Chiefs defense holds strong. A yellow card for Toure and some more yellow cards for Chiefs players (Mthetwa, Potsane, and Bvuma) further fuel the intensity of the match.Despite late pressure from Stellenbosch, including a header that narrowly misses the target and a stunning long-range effort from Godswill that Bvuma tips over, Chiefs manage to hold on for the 2-1 win.The final whistle blows, and Chiefs take home all three points, moving up to 4th place on the PSL table. Stellies played well but couldn’t find the finishing touch they needed. It was a thrilling encounter, and Chiefs’ resilience after going behind saw them deservedly take the win.