Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has conceded that the team is going through a difficult period and needs urgent solutions to halt their slide.
Chiefs suffered a 1-0 defeat to Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday night, marking their fourth successive loss across all competitions.
The defeat to the Natal Rich Boyz added salt to the wound as Amakhosi were eager to bounce back after being embarrassed 3-0 by arch-rivals Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby on Saturday.
Silverware Ambitions Hanging by a Thread
Chiefs’ recent losses have dealt a major blow to their silverware ambitions. They were eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup after losing to Zamalek in their last group stage match. Meanwhile, three successive league defeats have all but ended their title hopes, even though they remain mathematically in contention.
Given the poor run of form, Kaze was asked whether changes were needed within the technical team. He maintained that such decisions rest with management.
Call for Calm Amid Mounting Pressure
Speaking to the media after the loss to Bay at Umhlathuze Sports Complex, Kaze called for composure during this turbulent period.
“This is a difficult time for us and sometimes teams go through things like this, but it’s important that we stay calm and find solutions. If we start panicking, things could get worse,” he said. “We need to stay calm, keep our heads and try to find solutions.”
Defensive Frailties and Attacking Struggles
Chiefs’ problems extend across the pitch. They began the season on a high note with a rock-solid defence, while their main blemish was poor conversion in front of goal. Now, however, their structure appears to have collapsed.
They have conceded eight goals and scored just twice in their last four matches.
Their defensive woes may persist. First-choice goalkeeper Brandon Petersen recently underwent successful surgery, paving the way for Bruce Bvuma to step in. Bvuma, who had not played since the start of the season, has shown signs of rustiness, lacking match fitness and sharpness.
The defensive unit has also been disrupted. Against Bay on Tuesday, Chiefs were forced into late changes – a factor Kaze admitted contributed to the defeat.
“I believe we were not good enough offensively and defensively,” Kaze said. “To lose [Inacio] Miguel in the warm-up and Zitha [Kwinika] to suspension, and having to change the defence, wasn’t ideal. I think that cost us the game.”
No Excuses Despite Conditions
Although Amakhosi supporters filled the Umhlathuze Sports Complex to capacity, the smaller pitch size may not have suited Chiefs’ style of play. However, Kaze refused to use that as an excuse.
“We need to play home and away games, so that can’t be the excuse for the performance,” he said. “We need to grind, go back to work and find solutions.”
Having already been knocked out of the Nedbank Cup, Chiefs return to action on Sunday, March 15, when they host Durban City at FNB Stadium. Victory will be crucial if they are to prevent further slippage down the league standings.
