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.

Leonardo Castro says he wants to play Champions League football again before calling time on his career.

The Colombian striker is now 33 years old and without a club after being released by Kaizer Chiefs as part of a clear out at the DStv Premiership side.

He had joined Amakhosi from Mamelodi Sundowns, in 2018, having enjoyed success in winning the league title and CAF Champions League.

While he would love a return to the Brazilians, Castro understands that a reunion would be difficult.

On his Downs departure, Castro explained on IOL: “I would have done things differently.

“I was like any player at other clubs [while at Sundowns]. It’s business to make a transfer.

“At that time, we were talking about a new contract and about business. I did not agree and that’s why I decided to leave. It was the right time to leave as I found another option. I put my family first so I had to make sure that I chose what is the better option.”

On his future, Castro added: “My first option is South Africa. I’m very grateful to be in South Africa. It’s like my second home.

“I have been here for six-and-half years with my family. We have been comfortable and we love the culture and people here.

“I would like to play in the Champions League again. The only teams I can play for at this point would be Sundowns. Cape Town City would be another option.”