The win moved the AmaKhosi to within two points of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, one game short of the midway point in the season, and extended their unbeaten run in the league to eight matches.
They do not have the squad depth of title rivals Sundowns and Orlando Pirates and still need to find a cutting edge in front of goal, but here are five reasons why they could be title contenders by the end of the campaign.
Tight defence
Chiefs have conceded only six goals in 14 league games this season, the best defensive record in the division. Pirates have let in five in 12 matches, so could better that, but the foundation of Chiefs’ campaign has been built on a tight defence. They have conceded only one goal in their last six league games, which came in a 4–1 victory over Orbit College, while three of the six goals they have conceded came in a single match, their 3–1 loss to Sekhukhune United. That means just three goals conceded in the other 13 games. Outstanding. Their challenge is scoring goals, but if you don’t concede, there is always the chance you can nick one at the other end.
They don’t lose many
That Sekhukhune defeat is their only loss in 14 league games this season. They have probably drawn too many matches (six), but only Sundowns (also one) can match them in the losses column. Nine of their 14 games have been played at home, with just five on the road, but they have enjoyed good away trips, taking 11 points from a possible 15 and remaining unbeaten, which bodes well.
Controlling games
Chiefs have only fallen behind in two of their 14 matches this season, showing they generally have good control over games. One was the Sekhukhune defeat and the other a 1–1 draw with AmaZulu, where they rescued a point. No team in the top division has gone behind in fewer games, with Sundowns and Pirates (both three times) next on the list.
Staying ahead
Chiefs have taken the lead eight times and won seven of those games, being pegged back just once for a draw by Marumo Gallants. That shows their ability to manage matches and, once they get their noses in front, generally stay there. Pirates are also strong in this regard, having led 10 times and won nine, though they did allow Gallants to snatch a 2–1 victory earlier in the season. Sundowns have won eight of the 11 games they have led, drawing three.
Experience
Chiefs have a good blend of youth and experience in their squad, but even some of their younger players now have several seasons in the topflight under their belts. On average, each player in the squad has 78 career appearances, the joint second-highest in the division alongside Pirates. Both trail Sundowns (99 matches). That experience feeds into their ability to see out games when under pressure.