Kaizer Chiefs opened their pre-season campaign in Europe with a 2-1 loss to Dutch Eredivisie side Vitesse Arnhem on Tuesday evening. The match, while a friendly, offered an important first look at the team under new coach Nasreddine Nabi and highlighted areas for immediate improvement.
Coach Nabi opted for a strong starting lineup that included recent acquisitions Thabiso Monyane and striker Flavio da Silva, signaling their rapid integration into the squad. Youth prospects Aden McCarthy and Mfundo Vilakazi also earned starts, emphasizing a blend of experience and emerging talent.
The initial phase of the first half was marked by a feeling-out process, with both teams struggling to assert dominance. Nevertheless, the central midfield pairing of Thabo Cele and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo consistently saw a good deal of the ball, attempting to dictate the tempo.
This control in midfield was a notable feature until the 36th minute, when Kaizer Chiefs dramatically broke the deadlock. Reeve Frosler unleashed a spectacular long-range effort that soared into the back of the net, leaving the Vitesse goalkeeper stranded and putting the Amakhosi deservedly in front.
Towards the end of the first half, Vitesse managed to push forward and create some attacking moments. While they penetrated the final third on several occasions, their finishing and decision-making in crucial areas were lacking, failing to genuinely test goalkeeper Brandon Petersen.
The second half saw a completely reshuffled Chiefs side, with Coach Nabi making a host of changes to give all available players valuable minutes. New signing Ethan Chislett was introduced into the midfield, while Nkanyiso Shinga took up the left-back position.
However, the tactical changes didn't prevent an immediate setback for Chiefs. Just moments after the restart, Vitesse found their equalizer, albeit through an unfortunate own goal. Full-back Dillan Solomons diverted a cross into his own net at the far post, drawing the scores level.
Chiefs nearly responded around the hour mark with a golden opportunity. Striker Tashreeq Morris was played through on goal and showed good composure to evade an initial challenge inside the box. Unfortunately, his subsequent shot lacked the necessary precision, sailing wide of the target.
HOW VITESSE SEALED THE VICTORY
Vitesse then completed their comeback with just under 20 minutes remaining. Andy Visser sealed the victory for the Dutch side, clinically firing past substitute goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma from close range. Despite their efforts, Kaizer Chiefs were unable to create any further meaningful chances in the dying stages of the game, ultimately beginning their overseas tour with a narrow defeat.
