Kaze Says Mabaso’s Debut Was Long Overdue
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze says Thulani Mabaso’s first-team appearance was long overdue, citing the youngster’s significant growth during pre-season training in the Netherlands and Amakhosi’s recent tour of the United Kingdom.
Mabaso made his PSL debut in Chiefs’ 1–0 Betway Premiership victory over Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Wednesday.
The left-footed midfielder looked composed on the ball after replacing Lebohang Maboe in the 74th minute, showing confidence by dropping deep and pushing forward to influence play.
Kaze said Mabaso, who helped Chiefs win the DStv Diski Challenge last season, had earned his place in the senior team and was not handed an opportunity as a gesture of goodwill.
“I think he is a player who has shown us that he can be consistent,” said Kaze.
“I have worked in a youth setup before, and I believe that here in South Africa we sometimes give too many gifts to young players.
“Mabaso went with us to the Netherlands and had a very good pre-season. We then wanted to see if he could maintain that consistency. He had a strong league campaign in the DStv Diski Challenge, went to England and played in the Carling Cup.
“You can see that he is a player with character. He’s not scared and doesn’t shy away when playing against experienced players.
“We want players with character and personality. They must show that they deserve to be there — not just have one good game and get promoted — but consistently show that they can bring something to the team.”
One area of concern for Chiefs is their lack of goals, having scored two or more goals only twice this season in the league — a 2–0 win over Stellenbosch in the opening match and a 4–1 victory against Orbit College.
Asked whether this was frustrating after another narrow win, Kaze admitted Chiefs should have scored more against Arrows but expressed confidence that the goals would come.
“I wouldn’t say it’s a concern as long as we’re getting the three points,” he said.
“But it’s true that we need to make more of the opportunities we create — the situations we get into. I believe that will come with time and confidence.
“That said, we do need a killer instinct.”
Chiefs will need that clinical edge when they face ZESCO United in a CAF Confederation Cup Group D match in Zambia on Sunday.
Amakhosi have so far recorded one defeat and one draw in their opening two group-stage matches.
