We made it difficult – Middendorp
We made it difficult – Middendorp

Posted in News, Team News on Jan 28, 2019.

“We honoured our obligation to qualify for the next round,” reflected coach Ernst Middendorp about the hard fought 1-0 win over Tornado FC on Sunday afternoon. “We came here with one intention, to win. And I’m glad we achieved that result.”

The win handed Kaizer Chiefs their ticket to the Nedbank Cup Last 16.

“We made it very difficult for ourselves though,” admitted the German, as the sole goal only arrived in extra time. “We struggled with some of our passing games. We need to work on the penetration of space, even though I saw some positiveness, with both Daniel Cardoso and Teenage Hadebe probing forward.”

It took Leonardo Castro’s deflected shot in extra time to get the winner for Amakhosi.

“We had a better variation in the second half,” added Middendorp. “In general, it is always difficult to play against a side that is defensively compact. They held their lines very well, although I thought that we could have done better on numerous occasions.”

The draw for the Last 16 will take place on Thursday.

“We have to design further sessions to work on our shortfalls,” said Middendorp. “My biggest concern is the lack of goals.

“However, we won the game in the end and I have to mention that Tornado did well and deserve some praise for their gallant display.

“It is important to note that all teams that play in this round deserve some respect. We have done our job and I am happy with the win.”

Left-back Happy Mashiane made his debut to rave reviews. “I believe we have a fantastic new signing in Happy,” remarked the Chiefs coach about the debutant. “We hope he will continue working hard and keep his feet on the ground.”

Chiefs will travel back home to Johannesburg and will welcome Cape Town City at FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening in an Absa Premiership fixture (kick-off is at 19:30).

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