Asanele Velebayi of Kaizer Chiefs outpaces TS Galaxy player Patrick Fisher during their Betway Premiership clash at the FNB Stadium yesterday. | Itumeleng English Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English Independent Media
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has urged his side to remain grounded despite reaching a significant milestone in their campaign, warning that their recent progress will count for little without sustained focus.
Amakhosi’s victory over TS Galaxy extended their winning streak to four matches — the first time they have achieved that feat this season — and further strengthened their grip on a CAF Confederation Cup spot. It is a run that signals growing momentum at a crucial stage of the Betway Premiership season, but Kaze has made it clear that the job is far from complete.
“We need to keep pressure, pressure on everyone, in training, out training to recover well, sleep early and pull in the same direction,” said Kaze.
Chiefs’ recent improvement has been built on a combination of structure, discipline and better decision-making in key moments.
The return of senior players has added stability, while younger members of the squad have stepped up to contribute during a demanding run of fixtures.
Yet, Kaze’s message suggests there is a deliberate effort within the technical team to prevent complacency from creeping in — particularly now that results are beginning to reflect their potential.
“The message must be consistent, we can’t relax, we need to be better everyday, concentrate in every training session, it’s the only thing that will keep us in a good space.”
The timing of this winning streak could prove decisive. With the race for continental qualification tightening, Chiefs have given themselves a valuable cushion over rivals such as AmaZulu FC, while also holding games in hand. But as Kaze points out, those advantages can quickly disappear without the right mindset.
There is also a recognition that while four wins in a row marks progress, it does not guarantee anything in a league where consistency often defines success. Chiefs have experienced fluctuating form earlier in the season, and avoiding a repeat will be key to maintaining their position.
For a squad blending experience with youth, that message is particularly important. Because as Kaze has made clear, four wins mean little if they are not followed by a fifth.