Kaizer Chiefs’ defensive struggles continued against Richards Bay, with poor communication and mistakes at the back once again costing them valuable points.
Amakhosi have now shown worrying signs defensively this season, particularly when attempting to play out from the back.
While head coach Fernando Da Cruz has been praised for his tactical approach in certain matches, the three-man defence has yet to provide the stability expected of it.
Against Mamelodi Sundowns, Da Cruz opted for a cautious approach, fielding eight defensively minded players as Kaizer Chiefs secured a draw against the reigning champions. The result earned the coach plenty of praise for his tactical discipline.
However, Amakhosi were more adventurous against Richards Bay, but the switch to a more offensive approach exposed some of the same defensive weaknesses.
Inacio Miguel, Thabo Moloisane and Miguel Inacio formed the back three, but the trio looked unsettled throughout the match. The opening goal was particularly costly, with goalkeeper Brandon Petersen failing to control a pass from Moloisane before the Richards Bay striker pounced on the loose ball.
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Amakhosi are making life difficult for themselves by insisting on building from the back despite lacking the personnel to do it effectively.
“The defence was terrible, honestly. It’s wet, you’re playing with three slow players at the back and at the same time you’re playing a high line. Obviously you will be exposed,” Khanye told iDiski TV.
“Chiefs are not a team that are comfortable building from the back when pressed. It’s not their strength.”
Kaizer Chiefs keeper making mistakes
Khanye also questioned the decision to play the ball back to Petersen in the build-up to the goal, arguing that Chiefs should have taken a more direct approach.
“Also, Moloisane going back to the goalkeeper, I don’t understand. The striker is coming, the keeper should just kick it first time.”
The comments highlight a growing concern for Chiefs. Their problem may not simply be the decision to use three defenders, but whether the players in the system are suited to the demands of playing a high defensive line and building possession from deep.
With the Betway Premiership season still in its early stages, Da Cruz will need to find a solution quickly.
Kaizer Chiefs cannot afford to keep gifting opponents goals through avoidable mistakes, particularly if they want to remain in contention at the top of the table.
