Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr has opened up about the club’s humiliating 3-0 defeat to arch-rivals Orlando Pirates last weekend. Amakhosi’s struggles continued in midweek when they suffered a 1-0 loss to Richards Bay FC, a result that saw them drop to sixth place on the Betway Premiership table.
Many supporters believe the heavy derby defeat to Pirates has had a lasting impact on the team’s morale. Others have criticised the club’s co-coaches for constantly rotating the squad and making changes to the starting lineup in almost every match.
Derby Defeat Analysis
Speaking to Robert Marawa on 947, Motaung Jr admitted that Chiefs were completely outclassed by their Soweto rivals. “I think we have to fully take responsibility, Rob. One, you don’t lose against your arch-rivals, and two, you don’t lose in that manner — that’s a fact,” he said.
“We had some really deep soul-searching conversations and sit-downs with the players, the coaches, ourselves and the staff in general. We embarrassed ourselves on that day, at our home, in front of hundreds of thousands in the stadium and millions watching at home. That’s a fact.”
Road to Recovery
Motaung Jr added that he had never seen the team look as flat and disjointed as they did during the derby. “One of our club legends put it correctly, we were on the wrong side of history. I’ve never seen us that flat and I’ve never seen our approach like that,” he said.
With 12 matches remaining in the Betway Premiership season, Amakhosi’s main objective now is to secure a top-three finish, with the league title seemingly out of reach. Here are some key factors that could influence their chances:
- Consistency in team selection
- Improved defensive solidity
- Enhanced attacking flair
Motaung Jr will also have important decisions to make at the end of the season, particularly in the coaching department, if Chiefs are to improve and challenge more strongly next campaign. For more information on the Premier Soccer League, visit the Soccer Laduma website.
