Kaizer Chiefs’ three signings in January – Glody Lilepo, Thabo Cele, and Tashreeq Morris – appear to have addressed four key areas.
Amakhosi are undergoing a rebuild aimed at ending a decade-long trophy drought. The club’s coach, Nasreddine Nabi, has managed an inconsistent team in the first half of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season.
The Tunisian coach has made it clear that quality players are important for Amakhosi to return to their winning ways. He expressed his satisfaction with the recent signings, believing they will contribute to the club’s goal of once again bringing silverware to Naturena.
Here’s how Lilepo, Cele, and Morris have improved the Soweto giants in the second round of the campaign.
MORRIS PRESSING FROM THE TOP
The pressing from the top has notably improved, largely due to Tashreeq Morris’ contributions. Stellenbosch FC struggled to play out from the back.
In the matches against AmaZulu FC and Stellenbosch FC, Morris effectively pressured defenders, forcing them into mistakes. This is an aspect that Ranga Chivaviro has not consistently provided for Chiefs.
LILEPO GOAL THREAT
Glody Lilepo has emerged as a natural goal threat, having already scored twice. The Congolese attacker eliminates the need to play Wandile Duba out of position on the wing.
Lilepo’s arrival has also positively impacted Reeve Frosler on the right flank, enhancing their combination play during key moments. Frosler, who has struggled throughout the season, appears more dynamic with Lilepo in front of him.
With the former AS Vita winger giving Amakhosi width, Frosler’s underlapping runs against Usuthu were encouraging. The repeated patterns show an understanding that is being forged.
CHIEFS’ SETPIECES IMPROVED
In the match against Stellenbosch, Lilepo registered two free kicks on target. Although they didn’t trouble goalkeeper Sage Stephens, it indicates his potential to bolster The Glamour Boys’ scoring opportunities from set pieces.
Thabo Cele has taken on the responsibility of delivering effective corner kicks, addressing an area where Chiefs have previously faced difficulties. They also have height in the box in the form of Lilepo, Morris and Inacio Miguel.
NABI’S OPTIONS ON THE BENCH ARE BETTER
Additionally, the bench’s depth has improved with the arrival of these players. Thabo Cele’s availability in midfield provides the coaches with more options, especially when paired with Yusuf Maart, who delivered a strong performance in Cape Town against Stellies.
The midfield line-up now includes Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Njabulo Blom, George Matlou, and Samkelo Zwane.
Upfront, with Morris now in the mix, coaches will soon have additional choices with Ashley Du Preez, Ranga and Wandile Duba.
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