Abrahams reveals daring Duba advice before stunning Chiefs goal

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Abrahams reveals daring Duba advice before stunning Chiefs goal
Faiz Abrahams celebrates after his freekick went in against Siwelele FC. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

Was it a shot or a misplaced cross?

That was the question on everyone’s lips after Faiz Abrahams’ stunning free-kick found the net against Siwelele. The 21-year-old has now settled the debate, revealing the on-field conversation that led to the decisive goal.

With Kaizer Chiefs holding a precarious 2-1 lead in a tense match, they won a free-kick in the 76th minute. The ball was placed deep in Siwelele’s half, in a position between the left touchline and the penalty box, from where a cross seemed the most logical option.

Kaizer Chiefs new signing Faiz Abrahams and coach Fernando da Cruz.
Kaizer Chiefs new signing Faiz Abrahams and coach Fernando da Cruz. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

However, Abrahams has disclosed that a brief chat with his teammate Wandile Duba altered his intentions and ultimately sealed the victory for the Glamour Boys.

Abrahams on what Duba told him

“When I went to take the free kick, [Wandile] Duba told me not to cross the ball for anyone but to try and score,” Abrahams explained to the Kaizer Chiefs website.

It was a daring instruction, especially for a player making just his second appearance in the iconic Gold and Black. Yet, Abrahams displayed the self-belief needed to attempt the audacious.

Wandile Duba of Kaizer Chiefs playing against Siwelele FC.
Wandile Duba of Kaizer Chiefs playing against Siwelele FC. Image: Kaizer Chiefs

The execution was sublime. Abrahams struck the ball with his right foot, sending a curling effort towards the far post. The shot hit the woodwork before deflecting off Siwelele goalkeeper Samukelo Xulu and into the net, extending Amakhosi’s lead to 3-1.

Although Siwelele scored a late consolation, Abrahams’ moment of magic proved to be the crucial difference-maker in the contest.

Chiefs forward outlines ambitions

For the young player, the goal is a validation of his dedication since joining the club. He is determined to prove that this was not a fluke and is focused on maintaining his form throughout the demanding season.

“It felt great because I have been working very hard,” he said. “I’m just going to keep working hard and giving my all in training. I aim to stay consistent and always keep my performance levels up.”

Faiz Abrahams during his Kaizer Chiefs unveiling.
Faiz Abrahams during his Kaizer Chiefs unveiling. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

Amakhosi’s attention now turns to their next fixture, an away game against Polokwane City at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, September 12. Buoyed by their recent win, the team is looking to build momentum and climb the league standings.

Despite his recent heroics, Abrahams remains grounded, emphasizing that the team’s success will depend on collective effort and following the technical team’s game plan.

“The coach will set a plan for this weekend, and we will go out and execute it,” he affirmed.

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a sports journalist covering South Africa, with 16 years in sports media and a Bachelor's Degree in Communication. Focused on football analysis and responsible gambling, his work has appeared on GOAL and Pulse Sports Kenya, and he is a regular football analyst on TV and radio.

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