Kaizer Chiefs have shown significant improvement despite their MTN8 defeat to Golden Arrows this past weekend.
So far in the Betway Premiership, Amakhosi have scored five goals in their opening two matches and currently sit at the top of the standings.
With four different goalscorers already finding the net, Chiefs look sharp and clinical in the final third. Their attack could prove to be one of the most dangerous in the league, while their midfield has also looked compact and well-balanced.
Defence remains their biggest concern, but the return of players such as Bradley Cross from injury, combined with the introduction of Thabo Moloisane, could strengthen that area significantly.
Kaizer Chiefs eyeing the league
Here are three reasons why Kaizer Chiefs could be genuine title contenders this season.
Strong signings and a dangerous attack
The signing of Langelihle Phili has added another dimension to the Amakhosi attack. He was virtually unplayable on Wednesday as Chiefs defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0, showcasing the pace and creativity that could make him a key player this season.
Luke Baartman’s impressive form has also created more opportunities for the likes of Wandile Duba and Mduduzi Vilakazi to make an impact.
With Khanyisa Mayo now a permanent member of the squad, Chiefs have another proven attacking option who will be expected to contribute plenty of goals. If the forwards continue to click, Amakhosi could have one of the most potent attacks in the division.
Depth in the squad
Another reason Kaizer Chiefs could challenge for the league is the depth available to coach Fernando Da Cruz.
In midfield, Adolf Mtshinga can provide defensive cover if Sibongiseni Mthethwa or Siphesihle Ndlovu are unavailable or need a rest. Having players capable of stepping in without significantly weakening the team will be crucial over a long league campaign.
Further forward, Asanele Velebayi and Faiz Abrahams provide additional attacking options and could become increasingly important as the season progresses.
At the back, the return of Moloisane would give Chiefs greater experience and depth, particularly in the big matches where defensive stability could make the difference between winning and dropping points.
Pirates and Sundowns could face fixture congestion
Kaizer Chiefs could also benefit in the league from the challenges facing their biggest rivals.
Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates have both looked somewhat sluggish at times at the start of the campaign. The additional demands of the CAF Champions League could put further pressure on their squads, particularly as the season progresses.
Pirates are already dealing with injuries and have a demanding schedule ahead, including their MTN8 semi-final commitments. Sundowns, meanwhile, will have to balance domestic football with their continental campaign.
Chiefs have fewer distractions. Having already been eliminated from the MTN8, they will have more time between matches, while their CAF Confederation Cup campaign also gives them a less congested schedule than their rivals.
That could allow Nabi to keep his key players fresh while Pirates and Sundowns rotate their squads more frequently.
History points to Kaizer Chiefs winning the league
There is another interesting piece of history that could give Amakhosi supporters reason for optimism.
Since 2003, Kaizer Chiefs have won the league on two occasions after Orlando Pirates had previously lifted the title. In 2004, Amakhosi claimed the PSL title after Pirates had won the 2002/03 campaign.
The same pattern emerged in 2012/13, when Chiefs, under Stuart Baxter, won the league after Pirates had dominated the previous two seasons.
With Pirates having won the 2023/24 Betway Premiership, Amakhosi will hope history repeats itself.
It is still very early in the season, but Chiefs have already shown enough to suggest they could be serious title contenders. If they can tighten up defensively while maintaining their attacking form, Amakhosi could be in the mix for the league title come the end of the season.
