Kaizer Chiefs head coach Arthur Zwane has provided a team update ahead of Saturday’s Soweto derby.
Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates’ Soweto Derby Nedbank Cup semifinal is this coming Saturday, and preparations are well on as excitement grows for what could be a historic match at FNB Stadium.
The team’s performance has been up and down during Zwane’s first full season in charge due to a number of injuries and suspensions that occurred throughout the season. If they can advance all the way to the Nedbank Cup championship, though, there will be a genuine sense of vindication.
Although inspirational captain Keagan Dolly, who is out for the remainder of the season, will be absent on Saturday, Zwane is still in with a good chance of becoming the first coach to lead Amakhosi to a major trophy in seven years. Khama Billiat and a few more players are still on the sidelines.
“We miss all the players that have been out, not only Keagan, more especially when we are looking for chemistry,” Zwane commented. “Unfortunately, we had a lot of injuries to key players, as well as suspensions and unforeseen circumstances beyond our control and we had to chop and change the team. It has been the most difficult season I’ve had since I have been here because of all that”.
“We can’t dwell on that, though. We have to try to come up with a solution, a new plan to make sure we accommodate everyone because we also have other players who haven’t been playing regularly. So, you have seen we have given the opportunity to Happy Mashiane to play; and KG (Kgaogelo Sekgota) as well, to bring back their confidence”.
“Though we lost to Swallows, the guys applied themselves well. In the game before, I think we showed a lot of character against Chippa. I just hope the guys will show the same character, discipline and tactical endurance against Orlando Pirates,” he added
