10-man Kaizer Chiefs squeeze past AmaZulu as Vilakazi makes a statement

Kaizer Chiefs claimed maximum points on Saturday afternoon at the Moses Mabhida Stadium thanks to their narrow 1-0 win over AmaZulu.

Throughout the season, Usuthu have been doing quite well despite coach Arthur Zwane rebuilding, owing to the many players they signed. At some point, they even occupied the third position as Amakhosi struggled to get their form back.

Having already secured their CAF Confederation Cup spot, the Glamour Boys made some changes in the first XI, giving a chance to the likes of Reeve Frosler, Ethan Chislett, Gaston Sirino, and Mfundo Vilakazi.

Betway Premiership: AmaZulu FC vs. Kaizer Chiefs

Starting 11: Petersen ©, Cross, McCarthy, Msimango, Frosler, Maboe, Ngcobo, Chislett, Lilepo, Vilakazi, Da Silva

Subs: Bvuma, Miguel, Mako, Cele, Sirino, Morris, Ndlovu, Mmodi, Velebayi

Coaches: Khalil Ben Youssef & Cedric Kaze… pic.twitter.com/Oe3pyFAeIt

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 16, 2026

The goalless first half

Amakhosi dictated the tempo in the first half, but it was Brandon Petersen who had to be at his best to deny Sandile Mthethwa, whose header was destined to find the back of the net.

Mfundo Vilakazi was a handful for his maker on the wing thanks to his unpredictable runs and directness. He won a couple of free kicks that his teammates didn’t fully utilise.

Chances were limited in the opening half, but it was Chiefs skipper Petersen who did well to ensure both teams went to the break with scores even.

45 + 1’| #AMA 0 : 0 #CHI

Half time score: AmaZulu FC 0 : 0 Kaizer Chiefs #Amakhosi4Life #BetwayPrem #KCOneVoice #KCOneFamily #LoveAndPeace pic.twitter.com/Sb6GMYJxSi

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 16, 2026

Lilepo, hero & villain?

AmaZulu were determined to get maximum points from Chiefs, with coach Arthur Zwane keen on proving a point. The Soweto giants were just dominating, like in the first half, but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.

In the 55th minute, Athini Maqokola found Hendrick Ekstein in a prime position, but it was Petersen who, once again, rose for the occasion to deny the attacker. On the other end, Frosler forced Olwethu Mzimela to a fine save as he parried the ball over the bar.

Maqokola could have given Usuthu a lead when through, but failed to score with Petersen stranded, as the ball went inches wide.

AmaZulu paid the price in the 68th minute as he converted Vilakazi’s assist. But he was sent off in the 83rd minute after receiving a second booking. However, the job had already been done as Amakhosi took their points tally to 54.