SuperSport United took a significant step towards avoiding relegation in the Betway Premiership with a commanding 2-0 victory over Chippa United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, May 3, 2025. This win marked SuperSport's first triumph against Chippa in over five years and their first victory under interim head coach Andre Arendse, as well as their first home win of 2025.
The match started brightly for Matsatsantsa a Pitori, who dominated the opening exchanges and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 17th minute. Lyle Lakay delivered a pinpoint cross that found Bradley Grobler, who rose above the Chippa defense to head the ball into the net from close range. This goal was Grobler's fourth of the season, coming from just ten attempts on target.
Chippa United, who had been solidly mid-table prior to the match, struggled to respond effectively. They had a chance to level the score in the 25th minute when Papama Tyongwana's long ball found Craig Martin. However, Martin's cross to Siya Ndlovu was poorly placed, and the opportunity went begging. As the first half progressed, Chippa found themselves caught offside five times and managed only one shot on target, leaving them trailing 1-0 at halftime.
Just three minutes into the second half, SuperSport doubled their lead. A well-placed ball from Nyiko Mobbie found Christian Saile, who cut onto his left foot and curled a delightful shot past Chippa goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. This marked Saile's fourth goal of the season and Mobbie's first assist.
Despite being two goals down, Chippa United did not give up. They nearly pulled one back in the 59th minute when Giovanni Philander's free-kick from a tight angle required a crucial punch over the bar from SuperSport goalkeeper Ricardo Goss. The Chilli Boys continued to push for a goal but lacked the finishing touch, with Justice Chabalala missing a golden opportunity late in the match.
As the clock ticked down, Chippa's woes were compounded when Sirgio Kammies received a red card in the 91st minute for a dangerous tackle, leaving his team with ten men. This victory propelled SuperSport United above Richards Bay on goal difference, moving them into 13th place in the league standings, three points clear of the relegation playoff position.
SuperSport's win comes after a challenging run of form, having not secured a victory in their previous six league matches. The team now has 26 points from 27 games, with five fixtures remaining in the season. They will look to carry this momentum into their next match against Stellenbosch FC at the Danie Craven Stadium on May 17, 2025.
Chippa United, on the other hand, dropped to ninth place in the league standings, now winless in their last four away games and without a league victory in their last four matches overall. Their next challenge comes against Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
This match was a crucial encounter for both teams, with SuperSport fighting to escape the relegation zone and Chippa aiming to secure a top-eight finish. The victory not only boosts SuperSport's confidence but also raises questions about Chippa's ability to maintain their mid-table position as the season draws to a close.
In summary, SuperSport United's victory over Chippa United was a turning point in their season, providing a much-needed boost in their fight against relegation. With a strong performance and crucial goals from Grobler and Saile, SuperSport can now look ahead with renewed hope as they aim to secure their place in the top tier of South African football.
