Nedbank Cup wrap: Chiefs limp through, Maritzburg’s woes continue

George Maluleka of Kaizer Chiefs celebrates a goal with teammates

Sunday Jan 27, 2019. 18:40

Sunday’s action in the Nedbank Cup saw heavyweights and 13-time winners Kaizer Chiefs just about limp through to the last 16, while Maritzburg United’s woes continued after they were beaten on penalties.

Chiefs were expected to comfortably outplay ABC Motsepe (third-tier) side Tornado FC at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium, but they put in a sloppy, uninspired performance and only advanced 1-0 after extra time and via an own goal.

The Amakhosi also had a major slice of luck in the second half of extra time when Tornado striker Kefuwe Siyoko was tripped up in the 18-yard area. The referee seemed to initially indicate a penalty, but the linesman had his flag up for offside – TV replays indicated it was an incorrect decision.

Elsewhere, the top-flight’s bottom-of-the-log team, Maritzburg United, exited the tournament in the first round after they were beaten on penalties by second-tier Witbank Spurs in Emalahleni. The match ended 2-2 after extra time.

Bloemfontein Celtic avoided a similar fate as they defeated Super Eagles 2-1 away, with a late winner from Rendani Ndou, while Mbombela United advanced with a 2-1 win at home to minnows NC Professionals at the Kanyamazane Stadium.

The Nedbank Cup last 32 round will wrap up on Tuesday evening with two matches: Maccabi FC v The Magic FC and Baroka FC v Jomo Cosmos.