Young Africans demolished Kaizer Chiefs 4-0 in the inaugural Toyota Cup tie played at the Free State Stadium on Sunday.
Yanga got their goals through a Stephane Aziz Ki double, and strikes by Prince Dube and Clement Mzize.
It was newly appointed Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi’s first game on home soil, having recently returned from preseason in Turkey. Here are a few talking points from the encounter.
CHIEFS’ DEFENSIVE FRAILTIES EXPOSEDWith no experienced left-back, Nabi fielded
Nkosana Mbuthu, signalling a challenge in that position. Although comfortable on the ball, Mbuthu, who played the full game, struggled defensively. The second goal came via an error committed by him.
Edmilson Dove and Bongani Sam are both out injured while Happy Mashiane missed the game as he returned from family commitments. Amakhosi may do well to strengthen their ranks at left-back.
CHIEFS STILL NEED TO ADDRESS GOAL-SCORING WOES
With scoring chances coming far and in between, the Soweto giants’ new mentor still needs to address their scoring woes. In the last two seasons, they have averaged a goal per game.
Nabi started with Ranga Chivaviro upfront, with Mfundo Vilakazi and Ashley Du Preez on the wings. The club’s pursuit of Elias Mokwana hit a snag.
The Sekhukhune United man is set to join Esperance of Tunisia. Amakhosi may want to add more options in attack.
NABI WILL NEED EXPERIENCE TO BALANCE HIS SQUAD
The former Young Africans coach started four academy graduates against his former team. Mbuthu, Vilakazi, Shabalala and Samkelo Zwane all started. While they showed flashes of brilliance, it is clear the team needs experienced campaigners to provide balance.
EMPHATIC DRUBBING AN IMPORTANT RESULT FOR CHIEFS
An emphatic drubbing at the hands of the Jangwani giants may just be what the doctor ordered for Amakhosi as they look to rebuild a competitive squad. It is a stark reminder that the club still needs to reinforce ahead of the new season.
It is also an indication of where the club is in as far as readiness for the new season. The extended break, necessitated by Chiefs’ absence from the MTN8, gives the coach more time to work on his squad. Management also has time to secure a few reinforcements.
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