Asanele Velebayi says his first goal for Kaizer Chiefs has strengthened his determination to become a regular scorer for the Soweto club.
The 23-year-old winger proved decisive in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final against Siwelele FC, scoring the winning goal as Kaizer Chiefs recovered from conceding first to claim a 2-1 victory.
That result sent Amakhosi through to the semi-finals, making Velebayi’s breakthrough goal particularly significant.
“Scoring my first goal means a lot, especially that it was a goal that won the match and takes us into the next round,” he said.
Velebayi, who joined Chiefs from Cape Town Spurs during the 2025/26 campaign, is now focused on making a greater impact whenever he is selected.
“I aim to help the team by improving my all-round game and scoring more goals when I get the chance,” he said.
The attacker is in his second season with Kaizer Chiefs and has made 21 appearances in all competitions. His record currently stands at one goal and one assist, although most of those appearances have come as a substitute.
His contribution against Siwelele therefore represented an important moment in his progress with the club, while also giving Chiefs a place in the final four of the competition.
Velebayi said the quarter-final had been an open contest in which both sides frequently surrendered possession. He believes Kaizer Chiefs should have settled the tie before the interval.
“It was a game of transition. There were a lot of turnovers in possession. In truth, we should have wrapped up the game by half-time, and we are working hard to be more clinical in front of goal.”
The comments highlight the improvement still required from Chiefs as they pursue silverware this season. Although they came through against Siwelele, Velebayi acknowledged that greater efficiency in front of goal will be needed in the remaining rounds.
Kaizer Chiefs now face a major test against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-finals. The other last-four tie will see Stellenbosch FC play Orlando Pirates.
The dates and venues for both semi-finals have yet to be confirmed.
