Kaze credits Chiefs duo for turning the tide in Bloemfontein

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has hailed the “stabilising” influence of Siphesihle Ndlovu and Flavio Da Silva after the duo’s introduction catalysed a hard-fought victory over Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.

The win catapults Amakhosi into second place in the Betway Premiership standings, leapfrogging rivals Orlando Pirates—though the Buccaneers currently hold two games in hand.

The Turning Point For Chiefs

After a sluggish opening 45 minutes that Kaze described as “sloppy and reactive,” the technical bench turned to their reserves in the 65th minute. The double substitution of Ndlovu and Da Silva for Nkosingiphile Ngcobo and Khanyisa Mayo paid immediate dividends. Just two minutes later, Glody Lilepo unleashed a stunning strike to break the deadlock and secure the points.

“We knew that sometimes players who don’t get much time struggle a bit, especially on a pitch where there were so many 50-50 duels,” Kaze told SuperSport TV. “We are happy with the contribution of Ndlovu and Silva. When they came in, they were able to stabilise the team and allow us to threaten in our attack.”

A Half-Time Wake-Up Call

The victory marks Chiefs’ third win of 2026, but it required some stern words in the dressing room. Kaze admitted the coaching staff had to challenge the squad’s mentality at the break to arrest a passive performance.

“We had to tell the players that if we want the three points, we need to get out there and get on the front foot,” Kaze explained. “The second half was much, much better. And what a goal.”

The Glamour Boys have little time to celebrate their domestic ascent. The focus now shifts immediately to continental duties, with a crucial CAF Confederation Cup fixture scheduled for Sunday.