Thabo Cele reveals major tactical problems facing Kaizer Chiefs | OneFootball

Thabo Cele reveals real problems within Kaizer Chiefs

Thabo Cele reveals major tactical problems facing Kaizer Chiefs

Despite a perfect start to the season with three consecutive wins and an unbreached defense, Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele has issued a sobering reminder of the team's recent past.

Cele pointed to the club's defensive record from the previous campaign, where they conceded 32 league goals—the third-highest tally in the division, better only than AmaZulu and the relegated Marumo Gallants. This stark contrast between the current solidity and last season's fragility highlights a key area for improvement as the team prepares for its next fixture against Richards Bay FC.

Real background problems

Midfielder Thabo Cele has pinpointed defensive vulnerability during counter-attacks as the critical weakness his team must address to maintain their promising start. The 28-year-old from KwaMashu, Durban, explained that the tactical focus is on establishing greater dominance in the attacking third to prevent such dangerous situations.

“If you look at it, our problem is that we play and then we concede on transitions. We’re trying to be in control, especially in the opponent’s half,” Cele stated. “We want to create more opportunities and also maintain control in the opponent’s half. It’s those things that we’re trying to improve on, you know, tactically.”

He openly acknowledged the significant pressure that comes with representing a club of such stature, confirming that the squad is fully aware of the demand for continued positive results. Cele embraced this challenge, noting that the perfect beginning to the season, while encouraging, is just the first step.

“Playing for this club, expectations are always there, and we’re here because, you know, we want to handle that expectation. And, you know, what they’re [supporters] expecting is good results, like how we started. But obviously not everything is perfect,” Cele added.