Can Kaizer Chiefs beat Mamelodi Sundowns? Khanye delivers brutal verdict

Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Junior Khanye has offered a critical perspective on the club’s recent form, suggesting that their apparent turnaround may not be as convincing as it seems.

Speaking to Soccer Laduma, Khanye expressed reservations about Amakhosi’s progress, highlighting their performance against Polokwane City as a more accurate measure of their current standing.

“For me, Chiefs were first properly tested against Polokwane City, and that’s why I’ve been saying I’m not entirely convinced they’ve turned the corner,” Khanye stated. “They still need to improve.”

Khanye pointed out that while Chiefs had secured five straight victories before draws against teams like Polokwane City and Orlando Pirates, before losing 2-0 to Siwelele on Wednesday, many of their wins come against clubs battling relegation.

Kaizer Chiefs only beating small teams?

“Yes, they’ve won games… but we can’t ignore that most of the teams they’ve beaten are in the relegation zone,” he explained. “Polokwane City are a strong side and have consistently competed for a Top Eight spot… Credit must go to coach Phuti Mohafe for the work he’s doing there.”

The ex-player was particularly unimpressed with Chiefs’ display in the Soweto derby, arguing that they were outplayed despite managing a draw.

“Against Pirates, I don’t think Chiefs had a great game. Tactically, they were not superior,” Khanye continued. “Chiefs are a big club – they should be going pound for pound with their rivals.”

He believes luck played a significant role in the outcome. “On the day, they were fortunate that some Pirates players were not at their best. I’m talking about players like Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, and Tshepang Moremi, who got injured early,” he noted.

Soweto Derby performance not convincing

“Chiefs must thank God that Pirates don’t have a clinical finisher. Honestly, Pirates were the better side in that derby.”

Despite his critique, Khanye did commend the club for achieving a key objective after a period of underperformance.

“Compliments to Chiefs for securing a Top Eight spot. That’s a good job considering they failed to do so in the last two seasons,” he acknowledged.

However, the loss to Siwelele has cast fresh doubt on their momentum. Amakhosi’s next challenge is a formidable one, as they are set to face league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld Stadium next Wednesday, a match that will serve as a true test of their progress.