Defensive errors yet again proved to be Kaizer Chiefs’ downfall as they suffered a 2-1 loss against Cape Town City at the FNB Stadium, their fourth defeat in a row.

Daniel Cardoso was brought in to replace Njabulo Ncgobo after his outburst against Golden Arrows but, despite a positive start, an error from Cardoso in the 14th minute had his team go 1-0 down.

The defender tried to head the ball back to goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, but underhit it allowing Craig Martin to intercept, round the keeper and put the ball into an empty net.

The Soweto giants looked to press forward to get back into game, but were met by an organised City side sitting deep in a low block looking to frustrate Chiefs.

The Citizens, though, always looked a threat on the break and almost doubled their lead just before the interval as Mduduzi Mdantsane had his tame shot from close range smothered by Petersen.

The home side struggled to find fluency after the break and, with no chances coming, the Chiefs coaching staff turned to the bench to bring on Phathutshedzo Nange in place of Cole Alexander, while Samir Nurkovic replaced Leonardo Castro.

Despite the changes, it was the visitors who struck again with another error at the back for Chiefs. Terrance Mashego played a one-two with Martin before flying down the left flank and, despite the acute angle, Mashego’s powerful strike hit Petersen to deflect into the goal at the near post.

Chiefs again turned to the bench and this time it had an effect as substitute Zuma pulled a goal back seven minutes before time with a tap-in at the back post, after shotstopper Hugo Marques parried Khama Billiat’s low diagonal shot on his path.

The late goal gave Chiefs a bit of hope as they pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but City managed to hold on for the three points.