Kaizer Chiefs coach Khalil Ben Youssef has explained his decision to introduce Tashreeq Morris late in the match after the striker made a decisive impact when it mattered most.
The forward’s contribution proved crucial for Amakhosi, with Ben Youssef revealing the thinking behind the tactical switch that ultimately helped swing momentum in Chiefs’ favour.
The experienced striker made his first Betway Premiership appearance of the season, coming off the bench in the dying minutes to mark the occasion with his first goal for the club.
The striker went on to score for Chiefs after he found himself unmarked at the far post, where he calmly turned in a cross from Glody Lilepo to give Amakhosi the lead in the 86th minute.
The hosts sealed the result in stoppage time when substitute Mfundo Vilakazi converted from the penalty spot after Lilepo was fouled inside the area.
The result not only secured maximum points but also confirmed Chiefs’ return to continental football, with the side booking a place in the CAF Confederation Cup for the 2026/27 season after reaching a 51-point tally – their best return in six years.
After the match, Ben Youssef explained that Morris’ introduction was no coincidence, but rather the outcome of consistent work behind the scenes.
“Morris is one of our players; he’s been working very hard in training sessions. We were waiting for the right moment, and I believe this was the right time to introduce him,” he said.
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“We also made him understand the importance of this match. There are a lot of people working behind the scenes to prepare players like him.
“I want to thank the fitness staff and the technical team, including coach Dillon and Nathi, for the role they played in getting him ready.”
Chiefs will now shift their focus to their remaining fixtures, beginning with a trip to AmaZulu in KwaZulu-Natal before closing out their campaign at home against Chippa United.