UPROAR Sanel Barns argues with Stellenbosch teammate Sihle Nduli during their Nedbank Cup quarter-final against Kaizer Chiefs at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on 8 March 2025. Picture: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
Former Kaizer Chiefs player Junior Khanye believes the Amakhosi’s 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC was rather fortuitous, in their Nedbank Cup quarter-final at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium over the weekend.
With the game locked at 1-1 heading towards extra time after the 90th minute, Chiefs player George Matlou appeared to have fouled Stellenbosch keeper Sage Stephens during a corner. With the gloveman impeded, Pule Mmodi was able to find the back of the net from close range.
The assistant referee flagged the incident, but referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa consulted with his colleague on the touchline before allowing the goal to stand.
As Stellenbosch threw all their players forward to find an equaliser, Chiefs found a third as they caught their opponents on the break to rub salt into the wound.
“Daylight robbery from the referee; that was very disappointing,” Khanye told iDiski TV.
“There was a foul. The goalkeeper has to be protected. Once you contact the goalkeeper in the box it’s a foul and the linesman saw it and raised his flag.
"But because of the hype from the fans the referee went, consulted and changed [his decision]. It’s very disappointing. It looked like either way Chiefs has to go to the semi-finals and it’s wrong. As for goal number three definitely Chiefs was going to score that one because the goalkeeper was out.”
While Kanye was harsh on the referee, he also revealed just what he thought of Stellenbosch who happen to be five spots above Chiefs in the Betway Premiership.
“This [Stellenbosch] is a small team, and we should be complimenting what they are doing the impact they have had. These boys suffered the same fate last season against Pirates. So, it’s a sad story for South African football."