Kaizer Chiefs boast the most impressive attacking statistics in the
Betway Premiership’s first round, yet find themselves fourth and trailing
leaders Orlando Pirates. Despite creating the most chances (157),
registering the most shots on target (71), and having the most touches in
the opposition box (349), Amakhosi’s title challenge has stalled. PSLSA
analyzes the five key factors behind this disconnect.
1. Coaching Instability
The club’s initial suspension and eventual dismissal of head coach
Nasreddine Nabi created significant instability. A shift in leadership and
tactical direction mid-stream has disrupted consistency, preventing the team
from building the sustained momentum required for a title push.
2. Delayed Impact from New Signings
Key off-season acquisitions like striker Etiosa Ighodaro and midfielder
Flavio Silva missed the early stages due to injury, delaying their
integration. Similarly, Lebohang Maboe needed time to regain match fitness.
While these players are now adding crucial depth and quality, their late
starts meant Chiefs lacked their firepower and midfield bite during a
critical early period.
3. Lilepo’s Loss of Form
Last season’s January savior, Makabi Lilepo, has struggled to replicate his
scoring touch. After netting six goals in the latter half of the previous
campaign, the Congolese forward has managed only one league goal this term.
His dip in form has left a significant void in the central striking role,
exacerbating the team’s finishing problems.
4. Questionable Tactical Utilization
The squad’s strengths may not be fully exploited. For instance, Flavio Silva
has shown aerial prowess but it’s unclear if set-pieces—a potential goldmine
with targets like him and Ighodaro—are being prioritized strategically.
Maximizing the unique attributes of their new signings remains a work in
progress.
5. The Mayo Misfire
The loan signing of striker Khanyisa Mayo from CR Belouizdad appeared a
reactive move to preseason criticism. Arriving late without a proper
preseason, Mayo has failed to integrate effectively, contributing just one
goal. The move, so far, resembles a panic buy that has yet to address the
attacking concerns it was meant to solve.
In summary, while the underlying attacking numbers suggest a team capable of
dominance, issues of managerial turbulence, delayed player integration, poor
individual form, and questionable recruitment have combined to keep Kaizer
Chiefs lagging in the race.
