Domestic focus for Chiefs as co-coaches steer team after Nabi exit

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze is determined to see his side rediscover their winning touch when they host a stubborn Siwelele FC in their Betway Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday evening, with kick-off at 7.30pm.

The Glamour Boys return to domestic duty after a taxing few weeks on the continental stage, where their CAF Confederation Cup campaign has offered glimpses of promise. Their most recent outing — a goalless draw against AS Simba in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo — kept them in contention for the group stages, but underscored ongoing struggles in front of goal.

Chiefs have collected just two points from their last three league matches, a dip that has disrupted their strong start. After going unbeaten in their opening five fixtures, they now trail table-toppers Mamelodi Sundowns and must quickly find form to keep pace.

Siwelele is a tough challenge

Siwelele, currently 14th with seven points from nine matches, have shown resilience under coach Lehlohonolo Seema, presenting a compact defensive setup that has frustrated opponents. The side features familiar faces to Chiefs fans, including former forwards Tebogo Potsane and Christian Saile, as well as loanees Samkelo Zwane and Happy Mashiane, offering insider knowledge of Amakhosi’s tactics.

At Naturena, the Chiefs’ medical team continues to manage injuries to George Matlou, Ethan Chislett, Paseka Mako, Bontle Molefe, Given Msimango, and Rushwin Dortley. On the upside, Lebohang Maboe, Etiosa Ighodaro, and Nkanyiso Shinga are edging closer to full match fitness, providing more options for Kaze and co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef.

“Every game is important to us,” Kaze said, signalling that the team will maintain focus despite recent continental exertions.

Stability after Nabi’s exit

Kaze and Ben Youssef stepped into co-coaching roles following Nasreddine Nabi’s sudden departure last month, after 14 months in charge. While Nabi cited personal reasons, Kaze refused to delve into details, stating: “I worked with Nabi for three seasons and I wish him well. I told him that. I hope he is going to find something that suits him in the near future.”

Addressing speculation about team unity after Nabi’s farewell message notably omitted Kaze and Ben Youssef, the Burundi-born coach insisted there is no ill will. “About the letter, I don’t have any comment,” he said. “The players believe in what we are building. Everyone is optimistic. We’re proud to be leading a club like Kaizer Chiefs.”

Focused on domestic glory

Kaze also defended striker Ashley du Preez, who missed a late opportunity in the CAF draw against AS Simba. “With Ashley, I won’t say it is normal, but it happens in football. He was devastated after the game, but as coaches, as the club and as his teammates, we are here to support him when the bad moments are here,” he said.

With CAF ambitions and domestic pride on the line, Chiefs will aim to overcome Siwelele’s resilience, reinvigorate their attack, and keep pace in the Premiership race.