Kaizer Chiefs missed a chance of claiming a double this season after being dumped out of the Nedbank Cup last 16, at Highlands, losing 5-4 on penalties with the match ending 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.

Ernst Middendorp’s Chiefs are currently leading the league table with 10 games to go and were hoping to continue challenging on two fronts with two trophies in the offing but now will have to shift focus on the league.

Middendorp decided to make five changes to the team that played the last game against Maritzburg United. Skipper Itumeleng Khune replaced Daniel Akpeyi, Yagan Sasman came in on for Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya, Kgotso Moleko in for Reeve Frosler, Kenyan Anthony Akumu Agay replaced George Maluleka and Bernard Parker also took Leonardo Castro’s spot in the starting line-up.

The slippery conditions after a heavy downpour in the second half seemed to affect both teams rhythm but it was the team from Tembisa who took the spoils.

The Lions of the North were looking to get on the front foot from the onset with Peter Shalulile winning a free kick in a dangerous position after a rush challenge from Kenyan International midfielder Anthony Agay. However, the set piece was wasted.

Highlands Park were on a high, Shalulile tasted Kune’s agility in goal with a one on one chance that was blocked by the veteran keeper.

Chiefs were finding it hard to keep up with their opponents as they resorted to long balls I  search of goals.

Highlands draw first blood in the 57^th minute with the Namibian Peter Shalulile slotting past Kune after a well delivered free kick by Luckyboy Mokoena found him in the box.

George Maluleka the substitute made an immediate impact coming on to replace Anthony Akumu. Maluleka put in a great delivery forcing an own goal from Sello Motsepe who headed the ball into his own net.

Both sides settled for a draw after 120 minutes given the wet conditions with the dreaded penalty shootout looming.

Khama Billiat and George Maluleka missed their spot kicks, which eventually gave an opportunity for Musa Nyamata to win it by converting his spot. He made no mistake sending the Lions of the North into the last eight.  

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

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