Blessing in disguise! Ex-Kaizer Chiefs coach back in CAF Competition after Amakhosi snub

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Blessing in disguise! Ex-Kaizer Chiefs coach back in CAF Competition after Amakhosi snub
Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, Kaizer Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs opted against giving Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef permanent coaching job at Amakhosi after the expiry of their contracts.

The duo had taken over from Nasreddine Nabi who was let go just six games into the 2025/26 Premier Soccer League campaign. During their stay at the Soweto giants, Amakhosi finished third on the PSL table, their best ever in six years, but struggled to deliver in domestic and CAF Confederation Cup competitions.

Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef left Kaizer Chiefs.
Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef left Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

Amakhosi management felt the two did not have what it takes to help the club realise their objectives, and let them go. Fernando Da Cruz has since been confirmed as the main man in Naturena Village.

There have been reports that Ben Youssef has landed a coaching role at Durban City, who will be competing in the CAF Confederation Cup after winning the Nedbank Cup. The Citizens have now confirmed indeed that the tactician will be at the helm.

Ben Youssef confirmed by Durban!

“Durban City FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Khalil Ben Youssef as the Club’s new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season,” the club confirmed.

“The 37-year-old Tunisian tactician joins Durban City FC as the Club embarks on an exciting new chapter following a historic period of growth and success. A holder of the CAF A Licence, Ben Youssef brings extensive coaching experience from across Africa and the Middle East.

“Having worked in Tunisia, Morocco, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, he has developed a strong reputation for his tactical expertise and commitment to building competitive teams.

“His coaching journey has seen him hold senior technical roles at AS FAR Rabat, Young Africans SC, Club Africain and Al Ahli SC. Most recently, he served within the technical team at Kaizer Chiefs, gaining valuable insight into the demands and competitive nature of the Betway Premiership.

“As Durban City FC prepares for an exciting 2026/27 campaign that includes the Betway Premiership, domestic cup competitions and the CAF Confederation Cup, Ben Youssef’s appointment reinforces the club’s commitment to long-term stability and continued football excellence,” they concluded.

Ben Youssef ready for a new challenge

The tactician is delighted that the club gave him a chance to lead them, promising to deliver.

Khalil Ben Youssef in trainning.
Khalil Ben Youssef in trainning. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

“I am honoured to join Durban City FC and would like to thank the chairman, the board of directors, and everyone at the club for the trust they have placed in me.

“This is an ambitious club with a clear vision for the future, and I am excited to begin working with the players and technical staff as we prepare for the season ahead. My focus is on building a competitive team that reflects the values and ambitions of Durban City FC,” he concluded.

<!-- Author Start -->Willis Sob<!-- Author End -->

Willis Sob

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Willis Sob is a sports betting expert and journalist covering Nigeria and South Africa, with 16 years of experience. With a background in journalism, reporting and programme production, he specialises in football odds, and his work has appeared on OK Africa and GOAL, as well as TV, radio and podcasts.

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