Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has highlighted how the 2025 AFCON break turned out to be a blessing in disguise for the Soweto giants.
While other Betway Premiership heavyweights Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates had a significant number of players at AFCON, Chiefs’ stars were overlooked once again.
Mamelodi Sundowns sent five players to AFCON, while Pirates sent nine players — the largest number from a single club in the Bafana Bafana squad.
While some felt at least one Kaizer Chiefs player deserved to be included, the club took it as a blessing in disguise — a time for them to try new combinations and refresh their mindset.
WHAT CEDRIC KAZE SAID
Speaking during a press conference on Monday ahead of their clash against Golden Arrows on Tuesday at FNB Stadium, Kaze said the AFCON break served as a second pre-season.
Kaze said they were afforded an opportunity to work as a unit and try out new combinations with some of the players who missed their pre-season in Netherlands.
The squad members left behind during the pre-season tour include Doney Jansen, Fiacre Ntwari, Given Msimango, Paseka Mako, Rushwin Dortley, and Etiosa Godspower Ighodaro.
“I would say that it was like a pre-season for me, because you have the whole squad. We had issues in our last pre-season due to some administrative issues, some couldn’t attend the pre-season,” Kaze said.
“But now we see that all the players are sharp, and they have worked as a unit, as a group. It gave us time to try new combinations, to assess and to see what is working or what is not, and I would say that it was beneficial for the team.”
Prior to the break, Chiefs had two consecutive 0-0 draws with Chippa United and TS Galaxy respectively. They will be hoping to return on a high note and remain within reach of early pacesetters, Sundowns and Pirates.
However, Arrows have remained one of their toughest opponents, with a mixed history between these two sides. Chiefs narrowly beat Abafana Besthende 1-0 last time out, showcasing the tight margins that usually define their clashes. In fact, over the last five meetings, Chiefs have won twice and Arrows have taken three wins.
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