Chiefs are the last giant standing after they beat ABC Motsepe League outfit Tornado FC 1-0 after extra-time in their Last 32 clash at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium on Sunday.
However, the Soweto outfit were dragged into 120 minutes of play to get the better of their third-division opponents with a touch of luck, thanks to Abongile Twani erroneously turning Leonardo Castro’s cross into his own net in the 94thminute.
Nonetheless, Middendorp welcomed the result and subsequent passage into the Round of 16, after the likes of Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates failed to do the same.
“We honoured our obligation to qualify for the next round. We came here with one intention – to win, and I’m glad we achieved that result,” said Middendorp after the match.
“We made it very difficult for ourselves though. We struggled with some of our passing games.
“We need to work on the penetration of space, even though I saw some positiveness with both Daniel Cardoso and Teenage Hadebe probing forward. We had better variation in the second half.
“In general, it is always difficult to play against a side that is defensively compact. They held their lines very well, although I thought that we could have done better on numerous occasions.”
Middendorp admitted that their toothless attack is a major worry as they target a resurgence in the league and further advancement in the cup, while also reserving credit for the gutsy display of the home side.
“We have to design further sessions to work on our shortfalls. My biggest concern is the lack of goals,” conceded the German.
“However, we won the game in the end and I have to mention that Tornado did well and deserve some praise for their gallant display.
“It is important to note that all teams that play in this round deserve some respect. We have done our job and I am happy with the win.”