Former Mamelodi Sundowns player Brent Carelse has provided a well rounded evaluation of the Soweto derby, alongside his thoughts on whether Kaizer Chiefs remain contenders for the Betway Premiership title after their loss to Orlando Pirates.

Amakhosi faced a 2-1 defeat at FNB Stadium to their bitter rivals, even though they showed promise in the first half, creating multiple chances that they could not capitalize on.

The teams went into halftime tied at 1-1, with Pirates demonstrating more effectiveness after the break, scoring the decisive goal early in the second half. Carelse believes that the crucial factor between the two squads was their capacity to convert scoring opportunities.

“I had a feeling Chiefs might pull off a surprise based on their performance. During the initial 30 minutes or so, they seemed hungry for a win, but sadly, Pirates rebounded and seized their chances,” Carelse expressed to KickOff.

“That was where the teams differed. Pirates capitalized on their chances while Chiefs missed theirs. Never the less, it was an entertaining match, showcasing South African football well, but Chiefs let it slip away.”

This defeat positions Chiefs nine points behind Pirates, who sit in second place, and ten points behind league leaders Sundowns, prompting concerns regarding their chances of competing for the championship.

None the less, Carelse perceives enough positive aspects in their play to indicate that the Soweto club can conclude the season on a high note. “Considering their performance, there were numerous positives.

If they maintain that level of play, they will succeed and have something to demonstrate by the season end, being consistent and continuing the style they exhibited at the beginning of the match against Pirates,” Carelse indicated.

Source: KickOffmagazine

Link:https://www.kickoff.com/psl/kaizer-chiefs/brent-carelse-weighs-in-on-chiefs-title-hopes-after-soweto-derby-defeat