10 men Kaizer Chiefs got of to a bad start at the Future Champions tournament in Soweto when they lost 2-1 to Esperance.

Esperance made a bright start when as early as the 1st minute they scored via the boot of Jihed Zaghouani. Minutes later, Chiefs goalkeeper Sibusiso Mabaso pulled a superb save denying the Tunisians from a free kick outside the 18 area box.

The Tunisians who as expected looked much bigger and taller grabbed their second goal in the game when Taha Khenissi’s shot went past goalkeeper Sibusiso Mabaso.

Kaizer Chiefs coach, Doctor Khumalo rang changes in the beginning of the second half bringing in midfielder, Xaba Mangaliso for injured Asaf Lebotsa, Thembani Nkomo made way for Tebogo Ntuli while Abraham Jacob came for Maselaelo “Shakes” Seanego.

The South African side played with more purpose during the second half with winger, Tshegofatso Ramabu asking more questions from the Tunisians defence. They were finally rewarded when Pule Mathong pulled one back following a goal mouth scramble.

They could have grabbed an equaliser when referee awarded Chiefs a penalty but Andile “Eto” Nqabeni’s strike was comfortable saved by opposition goalkeeper, Adel Lakhdar.

Chiefs’ woes continued when Vuyani Nkosi was controversially sent off by the referee.

The young Amakhosi will have to regroup fast as they will face SAFA Joburg Select on Tuesday. The latter received a 5-0 drubbing from rampant Corinthians on Tuesday.

Chiefs U17 starting line up: Sibusiso Mabaso, Asaf Lebotsa, Phokobye Makwena (Capt.), Pule Matlhong, Jabu Mazibuko, Thembani Mnkomo, Vuyani Nkosi, Andile Nqabeni, Tshegofatso Ramabu, Maselaelo Seanego.

Coach: Doctor Khumalo