Kaizer Chiefs pulled off a thrilling 1-0 victory against Angolan side Kabuscorp, eventually sealing the win 5-4 on penalties and keeping their continental ambitions alive.
It was the kind of match that had fans on the edge of their seats, celebrating every save, pass, and goal with equal passion.
As usual, Amakhosi supporters were invited to vote for the player of the match, giving them the chance to shine a light on the standout performer of the night.
Fans Crown Dillan Solomons Player of the Match
In a surprising twist, the spotlight fell on Dillan Solomons, a player who hadn’t seen action this season until this game.
The 29-year-old right-back impressed immediately, topping the fan poll with 50.3% of votes.
Close behind was Glody Lilepo with 35.1%, and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen captured 14.6%.
Lilepo had scored the match’s only goal after Kabuscorp’s keeper spilled a fierce shot from Solomons in the 41st minute.
Petersen also impressed with a flying save in the first half and calmly stopping a crucial penalty during the shootout.
Solomons’ Return to Action Makes an Immediate Impact
Remarkably, Solomons’ last outing was last season. New signing Thabiso Monyane had been first choice until injury, while Reeve Frosler and Zitha Kwinika filled in at right-back in the meantime.
When given the chance, Solomons showed why he had once been rated as one of the league’s top attacking right-backs during his time at Moroka Swallows.
Though he has struggled for consistency at Naturena, this game offered a timely reminder of his quality.
Dillan Solomons’ Journey at Kaizer Chiefs
Now in the early stages of his fourth season wearing the gold and black, Solomons has made 57 appearances for Kaizer Chiefs, contributing one goal and four assists.
The former Stellenbosch FC winger, originally from Steenberg, Cape Town, has also played for Milano United, Royal Eagles, and Cape Town All Stars.
A Busy Week Ahead for Amakhosi
Kaizer Chiefs have a packed schedule coming up. First, they host AmaZulu at FNB Stadium on Wednesday at 19:30, before traveling to the Western Cape for a Carling Knockout clash with Stellenbosch FC at DHL Stadium on Sunday at 15:00.
With league and cup duties on the horizon, Chiefs fans will be hoping for more moments of brilliance like Solomons’ unexpected heroics.