Sterkstroom Real Chiefs secured a place in the quarterfinal stage of the Dr NE Nangammbi Soccer Tournament by beating Mbahe Freedom Rebels 3-2 in their preliminary-round match at the Muraga grounds on Sunday.
The first half was a balanced affair, with both teams creating and squandering scoring opportunities. Real Chiefs were one goal up when the referee, Mr Roy Mulaudzi, blew the half-time whistle. They were awarded a penalty in the 37th minute. This after their striker, Vusani Musheli, was brought down within the penalty box.
Dakalo Sadiki showed the keeper the wrong way with a ground cutter.
Both sides showed more commitment in the last half. Freedom Rebels did not lose hope, although Real Chiefs increased the margin seven minutes into the last half. Elekanyani Makhuvha forced his way through the defence of Freedom Rebels and unleashed a powerful half volley. The keeper of Rebels, Nkhuliseni Tshamano, could not help but watch helplessly as the ball hit the back of the net.
As if it was already a sure case, Real Chiefs relaxed on the ball and allowed Freedom Rebels to recover. They pulled one back in the 65th minute. Ndidofelavhone Mphadi scored with a header from what was arguably an offside position. Joseph Nnzimeni of Freedom Rebels was reprimanded with a card for wasting time in the 70th minute.
Rebels kept on fighting until they found the equalizer in the 74th minute. Tendani Ramphedeli finished off a rebound after the keeper mishandled the ball. Real Chiefs scored the winner through Vusani Musheli three minutes before the final whistle.