Asanele Velebayi has announced himself at Kaizer Chiefs with a decisive contribution in the Carling Knockout Cup. The 23-year-old winger scored the winning goal during Amakhosi’s 2-1 quarter-final victory over Siwelele FC.
The encounter took place at the new Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane last Sunday. Interestingly, Velebayi needed only nine minutes to deliver his first goal for the Soweto giants. Introduced in the 75th minute, the former Cape Town Spurs attacker became the match-winner.
Velebayi makes his mark for Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs controlled large portions of the contest but struggled to convert their dominance. Mduduzi Shabalala missed an earlier penalty opportunity, leaving Amakhosi frustrated.
However, Wandile Duba eventually restored parity by converting another penalty just before half-time. With the quarter-final heading towards a tense finish, Velebayi produced the decisive moment.
Siwelele lost possession in a dangerous area following a defensive mistake. Flavio Da Silva capitalised before finding Velebayi in space inside the penalty area.
The winger showed composure and fired home in the 84th minute. Reflecting on the performance, Velebayi admitted that Chiefs needed greater efficiency.
“It was a game of transition,” he said.
“There were a lot of turnovers in possession. In truth, we should have wrapped up the game by half-time, and we are working hard to be more clinical in front of goal.”
He also explained why his breakthrough goal meant so much.
“Scoring my first goal means a lot, especially that it was a goal that won the match and takes us into the next round,” he said.
Velebayi wants to build on that memorable moment throughout the campaign.
“I aim to help the team by improving my all-round game and scoring more goals when I get the chance.”
Sundowns await Kaizer Chiefs in semi-finals
Meanwhile, Amakhosi now face a difficult challenge against Mamelodi Sundowns. The two South African giants will battle for a place in the Carling Knockout Cup final. Victory would bring Kaizer Chiefs another step closer to ending their long wait for major silverware.
The other semi-final will feature Stellenbosch FC against Orlando Pirates. Organisers have yet to confirm the semi-final dates and kick-off times.
However, the matches are expected over the weekend of 21 and 22 November. The final is scheduled for Saturday, 12 December 2026. For Velebayi, his breakthrough could provide the confidence needed to become an important figure in Chiefs’ cup ambitions.
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