Pitso Dladla reveals how Golden Arrows shut down Kaizer Chiefs attackers

Arrows stunned Chiefs with a 1-0 victory at FNB Stadium on Sunday evening, with Khulekani Shezi scoring the decisive second-half goal to send the Durban outfit through.

While Shezi's strike ultimately settled the contest, Dladla credited his players' disciplined defensive performance and their ability to work together for the victory.

The Arrows coach explained that his team had placed significant emphasis on individual defensive responsibilities and winning one-on-one battles during their preparations for the encounter.

"Yeah, look, first thing first, the defensive duties we work on in individual and tactical behaviour. We said, (Sbonelo) Cele, if you are isolated, there's (Luke) Baartman on your side, (Khulekani) Shezi if there's Mfundo (Vilakazi) on your side or whoever, you must be able to dominate the whole operation," Dladla told the media after the match.

"Win the 1v1s and then the cover will be provided, if need be, but if you are isolated, win the 1v1s."

Dladla was particularly pleased with how his players executed those instructions, with the back four maintaining their shape and providing cover whenever required.

He also praised the midfielders Nqobeko Dlamini, Nhlanhla Zwane and Ayabulela Maxwele for their defensive contribution in front of the backline.

"I think they did this very well, and then also as a group the back four. We told them that we are working as a group. If one needs to provide cover and have balance, let's just do that," he added.

The introduction of Chiefs striker Etiosa Ighodaro also forced Arrows to make adjustments, with Dladla highlighting the danger posed by the forward's aerial ability.

"We were also worried because aerially, he's very good. So we said, let's just close the crosses, of which we did that very well," he explained.

Dladla ultimately credited the entire technical team and his players for executing the game plan.

"Everybody forms a very important piece in the puzzle," he concluded.

Arrows will now face Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals of the tournament.