Kaizer Chiefs are set to face Kabuscorp in a pivotal second-leg preliminary qualifier of the CAF Confederation Cup on Saturday afternoon, eager to overturn a first-leg deficit and restore momentum after a challenging spell for the club.
The Soweto giants will host the Angolan side at FNB Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm, following a 1-0 loss at Estadio 11 de Novembro in Angola last weekend.
Struggling Form and Ongoing Turmoil
Chiefs’ recent form has been concerning. The team drew 1-1 with Marumo Gallants at home on Wednesday, extending their winless streak which also includes a defeat to Betway Premiership leaders Sekhukhune United last week.
Off the pitch, tensions have flared between coach Nasreddine Nabi and the club over contractual and licensing issues, with reports suggesting that a parting of ways is imminent. This uncertainty has compounded pressure on the squad.
Debutant Shines Amidst Disappointment
In Wednesday’s clash against Gallants, Chiefs initially took the lead through debutant Khanyisa Mayo, only for Jaison Clifford to equalize. Stand-in coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze were unable to secure the win, adding to mounting expectations ahead of the CAF tie.
Ben Youssef remained cautiously optimistic in his post-match comments, acknowledging positives despite the draw.
“We needed to regain confidence and push back into the top two on the log,” he said. “The performance was good, but the result wasn’t. Every game is like a cup final, and we need to play to win.”
Looking Beyond the Winless Streak
The Chiefs’ recent struggles stand in contrast to their strong season start, which saw four wins and a draw before the FIFA break. Fans have expressed concerns about turbulence at the club, particularly with ongoing coaching uncertainties.
However, Ben Youssef believes there is still much to build on.
“We didn’t win the last three games, but the performance is most important. When you play well, results will follow. I have nothing to blame the players for—they gave their all.”
Key Players to Watch for Kaizer Chiefs
Attention will be on Khanyisa Mayo to maintain his promising start, while Gaston Sirino aims to bounce back after a frustrating display against Gallants, which included a missed penalty and a chance that drew the ire of some supporters.
Ben Youssef remains confident in Sirino’s ability to contribute moving forward.
“Sirino is a big player with experience. Missing a penalty happens, but he is confident and will help the team going forward,” he stated.
With the CAF clash against Kabuscorp looming, Chiefs are determined to regroup and advance to the next round of the qualifiers. Fans, players, and the technical team alike will be hoping that strong performances on the pitch translate into the crucial win the club desperately needs.
Related article: Khanyisa Mayo’s Debut Goal Not Enough as Kaizer Chiefs Held by 1-1 Draw
