Why Cedric Kaze is the perfect coach for Kaizer Chiefs, according to FARPost.
Kaze’s remarkable 21-match unbeaten run as head coach of Young Africans has caught the attention of football enthusiasts and analysts alike. A former player has pinpointed the essential factors that fueled this success, offering insights that could significantly benefit Kaizer Chiefs as they aim to replicate Kaze’s achievements.
Kaze’s impressive track record at Yanga
Kaze, who recently joined Chiefs as an assistant coach, previously led Young Africans to an impressive unbeaten record. Under his guidance, the team dominated the league, not only finishing the first half of the season unbeaten but also securing their first Mapinduzi Cup title in three years. In just five months, he recorded a staggering 17 league matches without a loss and achieved four consecutive victories in the Mapinduzi Cup.
However, his tenure faced a setback after a loss to Coastal Union and a draw against Polisi Tanzania, leading to his dismissal. Since then, Yanga has struggled to reclaim their Mapinduzi Cup title, highlighting Kaze’s significant impact.
Praise for defensive mastery
Yusuph Athuman, a former striker for Yanga, emphasised Kaze’s defensive strengths, particularly his knack for maintaining clean sheets. Athuman stated, “He excels at organising defences and would be a valuable asset in that role. As head coach of Yanga, his teams consistently maintained clean sheets and were known to be strong defensively.”
During his time at Yanga, Kaze’s squad kept nine clean sheets over 17 league games, allowing only 14 goals. They won 10 matches, drew six, and suffered just one defeat.
Impact beyond Yanga: Coaching approach
Athuman also noted Kaze’s unique coaching style, which includes training alongside players. “He actually trains with the players, which gives him a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses,” Athuman explained. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper connection between the coach and players, which can prove invaluable in building a cohesive team.
Kaizer Chiefs have faced significant defensive struggles over the past two seasons, suffering a 5-1 defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns last season and conceding 30 goals overall. The 2022/2023 season saw them breached 33 times under coach Arthur Zwane. This season, they have already allowed four goals in just four official fixtures.
With Kaze’s appointment, Chiefs hope to strengthen their defensive capabilities, an area that has proven problematic. Salum Pelembo, a Tanzanian sports analyst, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Kaze’s Yanga were very strong defensively and difficult to break down. That’s why they went 17 games unbeaten under Kaze. I’m sure Nabi will assign him to work on the defence, and he’ll definitely improve them.”
Stay tuned with The South African as we present why Cedric Kaze is the perfect coach for Kaizer Chiefs.
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