How Chiefs can address their set-piece flaws against Stellenbosch
Kaizer Chiefs visit Stellenbosch in the MTN8 quarterfinal, and their progress in the competition seemingly hinges on addressing their set-piece flaws.
In football, a team’s response to set pieces can make the difference between winning and losing a game. The way the team defends set-pieces is largely determined by the coach’s playing style and the opponents’ game plan.
Because soccer coaches and analysts are all too aware of this, they should pay special attention to this facet of the game while analysing their opponents.
In this feature, we dissect Kaizer Chiefs set piece approach and inadequacies ahead of the MTN8 Cup clash against Stellenbosch United.
1. Chiefs set piece status
Amakhosi’s set-piece approach has been inconsistent. Structural changes under Coach Arthur Zwane have been obvious.
A tactical migration from Stuart Baxter’s reign has seen new attacking and defensive styles. Under Zwane, Chiefs have converted one penalty against Richards Bay.
Amakhosi lost to both Royal AM and Cape Town City by conceding goals from a corner kick and free kick, respectively.
2. Chiefs’ limitations in attacking set-piece
Against Richards Bay, Chiefs’ offensive structure raised some red flags. In terms of numbers, Amakhosi deployed a lot of personnel when attacking a corner kick. In total, they committed eight players across the offensive zone.
This offensive approach exposed their defensive structure. As such, nine players were positioned in the final third, and one player was also high up the field.
Chiefs’ defence was completely inadequate and vulnerable to a counterattack [Fig 1].
3. Amakhosi’s defensive bravery
Defending a set-piece requires planning and organisation. Clever positioning, systematic numbers and the right players in the box are all essential. Reaction to various variations [short and diagonal]) is paramount.
Strategically, they have numerical advantage within the box when defending corner kicks. However, this strategy has exposed Chiefs marking and revealed the following:
3.1 Opponents remain unmarked
3.2 Opposition movements undetected
3.3 Few jumpers in defensive 1v1 combats
3.4 Tracking and blocking runners not achieved
4. What to fix against Stellies
Ahead of a tricky tie against Stellies, a lot must change. Chiefs have to balance their set-piece approach by tampering with the numbers. The sensible strategy will include:
4.1 Careful positioning and correct numbers in attacking set play
4.2 Right numbers for rest defence
4.3 Avoid counterattack from offensive corner kicks
4.4 Apply mixed marking in defending set pieces
4.5 Track runners and dominate 1v1 defensive duels
4.6 Deploy big jumpers as the situation demands
4.7 Manage areas in the box critical for individual and group movements
5. Decisive set-pieces
Regardless of the big occasion, set pieces will play a role. Yesterday in the English Premiership League, Arsenal, Crystal Palace and Liverpool all benefited from set pieces. Across the DSTV Premiership, every third match has delivered set play goals.
On Sunday, we anticipate any sloppiness in set play to be punished. Zwane and his technical bench must rectify all glitches associated with the set pieces. Still, whatever percentage of goals scored by Amakhosi or Stellies, set piece will remain a huge part of this MTN 8 Cup game.