Preview: Chiefs can’t afford another slip-up against Chippa

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Kaizer Chiefs have been on top of the Absa Premiership log for over a year, but with two games to go the would-be champions are stuttering towards the finish line. With only goal difference separating them from challengers Mamelodi Sundowns, Ernst Middendorp’s charges can’t afford another slip-up against Chippa United, writes DEAN WORKMAN.

Middendorp’s men still hold the slight advantage over Downs heading into the final few games despite a run of form which has threatened to derail their title charge.

Amakhosi are on a four-game winless streak and have only managed to pick up five points from a possible 18 since the restart.

With Pitso Mosimane’s team playing at the same time, Chiefs will undoubtedly be looking to keep their fate in their own hands by picking up the three points, but they face a Chippa side who have proved to be tricky customers for Chiefs to handle in recent years.

Before Chiefs’ 2-0 win over the Chilli Boys back in November, the side from the Eastern Cape had dominated this fixture winning five of the previous eight clashes – drawing twice and losing just once.

A win, two draws and a loss since the resumption has edged Chippa away from the drop zone. They do, however, still have a mathematical chance of going down and will want to secure their safety with a result against the Glamour Boys.

Chiefs will be without both Leonardo Castro and Daniel Akpeyi, who left the bubble after sustaining injuries, which could spell the return of fan favourite Itumeleng Khune to the team.

With the title race now entering its final stage Chiefs will be hoping to stay at the top of the table with all three points against Chippa. Kick-off is at 6pm.

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Dean Workman