Kaizer Chiefs are still searching for their first Premier Soccer League title in 11 years, but there is growing belief that the upcoming season could finally end their long wait.
The Glamour Boys came agonisingly close to lifting the trophy in the 2019/20 campaign before Mamelodi Sundowns snatched the title on the final day of the season.
Since then, Chiefs have endured several disappointing campaigns, often struggling to finish inside the top eight. Their only silverware during that period has been the Nedbank Cup, highlighting how far the club has fallen from its former dominance.
Last season showed signs of progress as Amakhosi finished third in the league but still ended the campaign 15 points behind champions Orlando Pirates, underlining the gap they still need to close.
Kaizer Chiefs chasing league title after 11 years
With a new coach, fresh ideas and the possibility of more signings before the transfer window closes, Chiefs could emerge as genuine title contenders if everything falls into place.
Quality signings could transform the squad
If Amakhosi add four or five quality players, they could significantly strengthen their chances of challenging for the league title while also competing for domestic trophies.
The squad still appears to need a pacey winger, a creative midfielder, an experienced left-back and a clinical striker.
In goal, Brandon Petersen has shown encouraging form and could provide the stability needed at the back.
Midfielders Lebohang Maboe and Sibongiseni Mthethwa bring valuable experience, but Chiefs still lack a consistent creative presence, especially on days when Mduduzi Shabalala struggles to influence matches.
Kaizer Chiefs finished third in the league but lacked creativity
A prolific striker would also ease the goalscoring burden on Flávio Silva, while another winger could help replace the creativity lost following Gastón Sirino’s departure and provide greater consistency than Pule Mmodi.
Fernando Da Cruz must hit the ground running
New coach Fernando Da Cruz will be expected to find his best starting XI quickly and build momentum from the opening weeks of the season.
If new signing Thabo Moloisane settles immediately and becomes the leader of the defence, Chiefs could establish a solid foundation to complement their attacking talent.
Da Cruz will also be under pressure to keep pace with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. Falling behind early could make another title challenge difficult, making a successful transfer window even more important.
History offers Chiefs supporters hope
Interestingly, history provides an unusual reason for optimism among Chiefs fans.
The last two times Orlando Pirates won the league, Kaizer Chiefs responded by lifting the title the following season.
After Pirates won the 2002/03 league title, Chiefs claimed their first PSL championship in 2003/04.
A similar pattern emerged after Pirates’ dominance under Ruud Krol. Stuart Baxter guided Chiefs to the 2012/13 league title shortly after the Buccaneers’ successful spell.
While history does not guarantee future success, Amakhosi supporters will hope the trend continues if Pirates fail to defend their crown.
Whether that happens will ultimately depend on Chiefs improving their consistency, strengthening the squad and delivering on the promise they showed last season.
