Kaizer Chiefs’ 2025/26 campaign is spiralling into a season to forget after yet another setback, a first-round Carling Knockout Cup elimination at the hands of Stellenbosch FC. The goalless stalemate that ended in a 5-4 penalty shootout defeat laid bare Chiefs’ ongoing struggles in front of goal and growing instability within the club.
A Frustrating Night That Exposed Chiefs’ Weaknesses
The clash at Cape Town Stadium produced 120 minutes of uninspired football, as Amakhosi once again failed to convert possession into goals. Despite having the upper hand for much of the second half and extra time, the Soweto giants couldn’t find a way past the stubborn Stellies defence.
The night took an unexpected twist when goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari refused to be substituted for Bruce Bvuma ahead of the shootout. Assistant coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef had planned to bring on Bvuma, known for his penalty-saving prowess, but Ntwari defied the instruction.
To his credit, the Rwandan stopper initially put Chiefs ahead in the shootout by saving Andre de Jong’s spot kick. However, Stellenbosch goalkeeper Sage Stephens turned hero, denying both Tashreeq Morris and Dilon Solomons to send Amakhosi crashing out and silence the 40,000-strong crowd.
The Goal-Scoring Crisis Deepens
Kaizer Chiefs’ inability to score has now become a defining feature of their season. The team has struggled to find rhythm or creativity in the final third, and even the presence of new signing Khanyisa Mayo failed to spark life into their attack. Mayo came close when his thunderous strike hit the post, while efforts from Dilon Solomons and Glody Lilepo drifted wide.
Despite Stellenbosch being reduced to ten men following Thapelo Mokobodi’s red card in extra time, Chiefs couldn’t take advantage. Their lack of composure, cutting edge, and confidence in the box continues to frustrate fans and coaches alike.
Internal Chaos and Coaching Confusion
Off the pitch, the situation appears equally unstable. Head coach Nasreddine Nabi’s sudden departure reportedly due to his wife’s car accident has thrown the club’s leadership into disarray. Recent reports suggest he might reconsider and return to his post, but Chiefs have yet to confirm his status, issuing only a brief statement calling it an “internal matter.”
Assistant coach Cedric Kaze, now leading the team alongside Ben Youssef, admitted after the Carling Knockout exit that the Ntwari substitution issue “came from good intentions” but acknowledged it “wasn’t handled well.” The incident reflects deeper cracks in communication and authority within the technical team.
Fans Growing Impatient as Pressure Builds
Kaizer Chiefs fans, known for their unwavering support, are losing patience as the club’s trophy drought threatens to extend further. The team’s inability to deliver results, coupled with off-field turmoil, has raised serious questions about the direction of the club and its recruitment strategy.
Social media has been flooded with frustration, with many calling for stronger leadership and accountability. The once-feared Glamour Boys are now a side struggling for confidence, structure, and belief, a shadow of their former glory.
Can Amakhosi Reignite Their Spark?
The road ahead looks tough. Chiefs must rediscover their scoring magic quickly if they are to salvage their season and restore faith among supporters. With the BetwayPremiership fixtures coming thick and fast, consistency in front of goal will be key.
The potential return of Nabi could provide some stability, but unless Chiefs find a reliable finisher and a tactical balance, they risk another season of disappointment. For now, Kaizer Chiefs remain a team searching for identity, goals, and the winning mentality that once made them the pride of the nation.
Related article: 2025 Carling Knockout Cup Fixtures: Confirmed Dates, Venues, and Kickoff Times
