Kaizer Chiefs secure Freedom Day victory over Chippa United

Coach Arthur Zwane made five changes to the squad following their previous 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune United, with Happy Mashiane, Njabulo Ngcobo, Sifiso Hlanti, Siyethemba Sithebe, and Mduduzi Shabalala all returning to the team.

Although Amakhosi started strongly, they failed to create clear chances in the early stages of the game, with Ashley Du Preez falling prey to a couple of offside calls.

After absorbing the pressure, Chippa attempted to put Chiefs under pressure with their first attack, however, Meshack Maphangule's low shot was straight at goalkeeper Brandon Petersen.

Chiefs increased the tempo of their game and Shabalala came close to scoring the opening goal, but his first-time shot hit the crossbar.

The Glamour Boys then piled the pressure, forcing Chippa defender Azola Ntsabo's scuffed clearance to loop underneath the crossbar before shot-stopper Lloyd Kazapua parried it over the top, denying Chiefs the lead before half-time.

After the break, Du Preez had a big chance to break the deadlock, but he blasted his volley over the crossbar.

The hosts then advanced forward in the second half, leaving spaces at the back for the visitors to exploit.

As the game opened up, Du Preez finally scored the opener for the Soweto giants in the 72nd minute with a stunning, curling shot from the edge of the box that sailed into the far corner.

Chiefs dropped deep in the closing stages, making a defensive and tactical change in the dying minutes as Dillan Solomons replaced Shabalala.

Although Lehlohonolo Seema's troops had a goal disallowed in stoppage time for a foul on Petersen, it was too late for the Chilli Boys to make a comeback.

Zwane's charges held on to see the deficit behind third-placed Orlando Pirates reduced to two points, while three points separate them from second-placed SuperSport United.

Chiefs next host Swallows FC at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Monday, while Chippa travel to Richards Bay on Wednesday evening.