Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze was left frustrated after his side’s slow start and poor finishing saw them bow out of the Nedbank Cup against Stellenbosch FC at DHL Stadium on Wednesday.
The defending champions fell behind twice early in the game but still created plenty of chances to fight back. In the end, though, Flavio Da Silva’s lone goal was not enough to keep their Ke Yona Cup hopes alive.
“I think the first few minutes were decisive. We did not start the game with the right attitude or mentality,” Kaze told SuperSport TV.
“We gave away goals in the first 20 minutes that should have been avoided. Even in the first half, we had a couple of one-on-one chances with the keeper that we did not take.
“Some days, no matter what you do, it is just not enough. We created a lot, and we hit the post a few times in the second half. We have to stay mentally strong and focus on Sunday. It is a big, big game for us.”
Kaze added that he urged his players to keep pushing after halftime, but chances continued to go begging.
“Even though they scored two early goals, I still think we were the better team. We missed a few clear opportunities that could have changed the game.
“We needed to start the second half with the right attitude and score early. The first 15 minutes are always key for momentum.
“The boys worked hard in the second half, but it was not our day. We are out of the cup, but we will fight for the rest of the season in the league and the CAF Confederation Cup.”
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
