Kaizer Chiefs

Kgaogelo Sekgota and Daniel Cardoso of Kaizer Chiefs marking Peter Shalulile of Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagepix

Kaizer Chiefs get massive title race boost thanks to SAFA

SAFA arbitration has reportedly come down in favour of Kaizer Chiefs in their case meaning they will get to play the matches.

Kaizer Chiefs

Kgaogelo Sekgota and Daniel Cardoso of Kaizer Chiefs marking Peter Shalulile of Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagepix

SAFA arbitration has reportedly come down in favour of Kaizer Chiefs in their COVID-19 outbreak case.

Kaizer Chiefs failed to honour fixtures in early December against Cape Town City and Golden Arrows due to the ravages of the pandemic.

Having asked for the fixtures to be postponed, Kaizer Chiefs had their request shot down and they were charged by the league.

Kaizer Chiefs get massive title race boost 

While a Disciplinary Commission found against Kaizer Chiefs the Soweto Giants took the case to SAFA to be arbitrated.

South African Football Association arbitrator Nazeer Cassim has now ruled in favour of the Soweto giants, meaning their games against City and Arrows will be replayed.

The encounters will need to be rescheduled, although the dates are yet to be confirmed.

Chiefs currently sit third on the DStv Premiership standings heading into Saturday’s clash against Arrows at the FNB Stadium.

Kaizer Chiefs crucially now have four games in hand on league leaders Sundowns, which they could use to cut the Brazilians lead to just four points if they can take full toll.

Chiefs and Arrows meet for the first time this season this weekend, but their clashes in the last campaign produced nine goals over two games.

Lebogang Manyama was Kaizer Chiefs’ hero in their home game against Arrows last term, as he scored a hattrick to take his goal tally against Abafana Besthende to four goals.

Cardoso braced for the challenge

Daniel Cardoso is well aware of the physical challenges of facing Arrows.

“They have young, hungry players who want to prove a point against Chiefs. It has been like that over the years when we have faced them. As they go longer in a game, they get more composed. We cannot allow them to gain confidence,” said the experienced Cardoso.

“We are on a good run which has helped us gain confidence. There is no option for us to drop points. The guys are aware of the pressure on us, but as a big team, we have to deal with it. We are positive that we can continue our good run. If we can end off in second spot ahead of the FIFA recess it puts us in a strong position and with games in hand. There will be plenty for us to play for,” says the stalwart Chiefs central defender.