A Nedbank Cup triumph in May marked the beginning of better times for Kaizer Chiefs in the upcoming seasons.
After enduring a decade without any silverware, the team, under coach Nasreddine Nabi, ended this drought with a 2-1 victory over their archrivals, Orlando Pirates, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Although the team failed to finish in the top eight, many supporters remained optimistic about the next season, considering the team’s successful run in the Nedbank Cup.
For preseason preparations, Kaizer Chiefs travelled to the Netherlands, where they played five training matches but managed to win only one. The new signings did not make a significant impact, leading to some supporters feeling pessimistic about the upcoming season, particularly due to the lack of creativity in the midfield.
Kaizer Chiefs had a flying start this season
Just before the Betway Premiership began, Nabi had to leave camp to attend to his wife, who was involved in an accident in Tunisia. His assistants, Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, took over and guided the Glamour Boys to three consecutive wins. Nabi returned at the end of August, but in the three matches he managed, the team earned only four points.
Following defeats to Sekhukhune, rumours surfaced that the Tunisian coach and Amakhosi had parted ways, although the club has yet to confirm this.
The Main Reason Why Kaizer Chiefs May Struggle to Win the League
Amakhosi are competing in three different tournaments this season. After finishing ninth last season, they did not qualify for the MTN8 competition, which Pirates won.
They are currently participating in the CAF Confederation Cup and will later compete in the Carling Knockout tournament next month. Next year, they will also defend their Nedbank Cup title. Competing in Africa will make it challenging for the club to maintain consistency in the league.
Despite a positive start in the Betway Premiership, their lack of experience and squad quality may result in them dropping points regularly. Clubs like Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have been competing for the league title for the past three seasons and have found ways to manage their workload effectively.
In contrast, Kaizer Chiefs have not played in CAF competitions for five years and may struggle to find the right balance.
