Chiefs Youngsters Lack Tactical Organization, Admits Zwane

Kaizer Chiefs head coach Arthur Zwane has acknowledged that his team’s development products, Samkelo Zwane and Mduduzi Shabalala, still need time and support to develop with regular first-team football. Although Chiefs managed to secure a 2-1 victory against Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium, the team lost control of the game’s tactical structure in the second half, which has been the case for most of the season, according to Zwane.

Playing on pure instinct

Zwane believes that when working on something new, players often play on instinct rather than understanding the structure, especially with youngsters like Samkelo and Mduduzi. He acknowledged that, at times, they become loose due to the excitement of the game and the crowd’s support, losing the game’s structure. As a result, Zwane believes that young players need guidance, patience, and support as they mature and develop.

Playing with experience

Zwane emphasized the importance of playing with experienced players like Keagan Dolly, who can lead and guide the youngsters while building the team’s identity. He believes that a team needs a spine with leaders, such as a frontman, midfield, defense, and goalkeeper, to ensure that the team doesn’t lose structure. With experienced players, young players can learn and develop faster.

Grinding results

Zwane said that it is crucial to grind results as long as they win the game. It will build the team’s confidence, and as the wins pile up, the team will play better and gain structure. He acknowledged that the team is under pressure, but it is essential to guide young players and make them aware of their mistakes. As a former player who made critical mistakes that cost the team, Zwane understands the importance of learning from those mistakes and guiding young players to avoid them.

Upcoming games

Chiefs will play against Marumo Gallants next, a team facing relegation, followed by their Nedbank Cup quarter-final against Royal AM in Kwa-Zulu Natal.

Conclusion

Zwane acknowledges that young players like Samkelo and Mduduzi need guidance, patience, and support to develop and mature. Experienced players like Keagan Dolly can lead and guide young players while building the team’s identity. Grinding results is crucial to building the team’s confidence and structure. As a coach, Zwane understands the importance of guiding young players and making them aware of their mistakes, just as he learned from his mistakes as a former player.