sportskeeda
Kaizer Chiefs’ senior and reserve teams are preparing for an exciting finish to the season, presenting a chance for dual silverware.
This scenario, once thought impossible at the season’s onset after nearly ten years of underwhelming results, has reignited hope among supporters.
Under Nasreddine Nabi’s guidance, the senior team earned a spot in the Nedbank Cup final by overcoming Mamelodi Sundowns with a 2-1 victory at Loftus Stadium on Sunday. They are now slated to face Orlando Pirates in the final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 May.
Meanwhile, the Kaizer Chiefs reserve team has returned to the top of the DStv Diski Challenge following a slim 1-0 victory against TS Galaxy at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium earlier that same day.
A pivotal 74th-minute goal from substitute Manqoba Ozoemena secured the crucial three points, propelling the Chiefs ahead of Stellenbosch, who previously held the top position.
With a game in hand over second-placed Stellenbosch, the defending champions currently hold 58 points after 24 matches, having suffered only two losses this season. The equation is straightforward: Chiefs must secure victories in their last three matches to clinch their first DStv Diski Challenge title.
Interim coach Dillon Sheppard emphasized the significance of those three points in reclaiming the top spot, stating, “Those three points were incredibly important.”
“The players were truly energized for this match. We are aware of how close Stellenbosch is after their victory on Saturday [against Golden Arrows].
“While I am pleased with the three points, we need to improve our performance, as we lost control and surrendered possession too easily.”
“These players are still developing, and it is our responsibility to help them reach a higher level. So, while we earned three important points, I expected a stronger display from the team.”
Sheppard, a former standout for Sundowns and Cape Town Spurs, recognized the team’s less-than-ideal performance but stressed that winning is the priority, regardless of the means, drawing on his extensive experience on the field.
Upcoming matches for the Chiefs include home games against Richards Bay and Magesi, followed by an away match against AmaZulu. Notably, the Chiefs remain undefeated against all three teams this season.
“The players’ efforts are commendable; we must aim to win our upcoming matches,” noted Sheppard.
“At times, grinding out a win is necessary, and it may require extra effort. However, as coaches, we constantly evaluate the players’ performances—individually and as a team.
“Improvement is essential, especially with two home games approaching against Bay and Magesi.
“We look forward to returning to Jozi and showcasing a much better performance.”
