Sekhukhune's 2-0 Betway Premiership derby win follows Chiefs defeat

Sekhukhune United responded to their midweek defeat by beating Chiefs 2-0 in the Limpopo derby, a result that moved Babina Noko into third place in the Betway Premiership after three matches. Coach Cedric Kaze said the victory reflected the reaction he had been looking for from his players.

Kaze was particularly pleased with the change in attitude. He felt Sekhukhune had shown greater belief, pressed with more purpose and played with the conviction that they could influence the match. That was a marked improvement from the midweek performance, when he believed his side had allowed the opposition too much room and respect.

The coach also credited the players’ application and response throughout the derby. Sekhukhune handled the match well enough to protect their lead, despite the opposition adopting a more direct approach after the interval and using long balls more frequently.

Kaze believes the scoreline could have been wider. Sekhukhune created further chances after scoring twice, while the visitors did not produce many opportunities in response. The coach accepted the result and said it provided a foundation for the team to build on after the setback earlier in the week.

The victory gives Sekhukhune a strong position in the early Premiership standings, with the side sitting third following its opening three fixtures. It also ended the immediate impact of the Chiefs loss and restored their winning form in a derby setting.

Sekhukhune did suffer another injury concern, with midfielder Givemore Khupe leaving the match after dislocating his shoulder. The medical assessment at half-time suggested the problem might not be as serious as first feared, partly because Khupe had experienced the same issue before. Kaze hopes he can return next week.

Vusi remains out with a long-term injury and continues his work with the medical team. Kaze said the club hopes the player will be able to rejoin the squad in the coming weeks.