Amakhosi Latest News: Flavio Silva Fires Kaizer Chiefs to Crucial Win Over Durban City

Kaizer Chiefs surged into third place in the Betway Premiership standings following a hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Durban City at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium.

In a match defined by grit and tactical discipline, Gavin Hunt’s Durban City locked horns with the co-managed Kaizer Chiefs duo, Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze.

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Both teams carved out opportunities in a cagey contest, but it was Flavio Silva’s late strike that ultimately broke the deadlock and proved decisive.

Chiefs started brightly, with Makabi Lilepo and Mfundo Vilakazi both testing Darren Keet early on, while City’s Mfanafuthi Mkhize fired narrowly over following a set piece.

The first half ended goalless despite half-chances at both ends, including a fine save by Keet from Vilakazi’s long-range effort just before the break.

The second half continued in similar fashion, with City pushing forward through Bokang Mokwena and Fezile Gcaba, while Chiefs gradually took control after a string of substitutions.

The introduction of Gaston Sirino added creativity, and the Uruguayan made an instant impact when his pinpoint cross found Silva in the 88th minute. The Portuguese striker rose highest to glance his header into the top corner, sending the travelling fans into raptures.

Durban City threw everything forward in the closing moments, with Letsie Koapeng forcing a fine save and Kyle Jurgens missing a late chance to equalise.

But Chiefs’ defence, marshalled by Inacio Miguel and Bradley Cross, held firm to secure a hard-fought clean sheet.

The victory lifts Chiefs to third in the standings on 19 points from 10 matches. Durban City, meanwhile, drop to fifth with 15 points from 11 games.

It was a reminder that Chiefs, despite their recent inconsistency, remain one of the Premiership’s most dangerous sides when it matters most.

Kaizer Chiefs: Bringing Back the Glory Days!

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi has confirmed that preparations are already in full swing to reinforce the squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Despite missing out on a top-eight finish in the Betway Premiership, Nabi injected a sense of optimism at Naturena by steering Amakhosi to Nedbank Cup glory—ending a 10-year trophy drought with a thrilling victory over arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the final.

The Tunisian tactician, who took charge at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, acknowledged that the rebuilding process is well underway.

He also revealed that he has already held discussions with club chairman Kaizer Motaung and senior management to map out the team’s future direction.

Read: Nasreddine Nabi reflects on debut season with Kaizer Chiefs

“We had a conversation with the Chairman and management yesterday, and we have a clear idea of what needs to be done,” Nabi said following Chiefs’ goalless draw with Polokwane City on the final day of the season.

“I’m not going to say how many players we need or mention any names, but the recruitment department is already working hard. Contact with some targets has started, and we’re confident the team will be much stronger next season.”

Nabi has repeatedly stressed the need for quality reinforcements to make Chiefs competitive again, and with the backing of management now evident, the coach appears poised to bring in players who match his vision for the club.

The upcoming transfer window could prove decisive for Amakhosi’s hopes of reclaiming their status among South Africa’s elite, as Nabi looks to build a squad capable of sustained success.