Kaizer Chiefs celebrated their 55th birthday on Tuesday but the club’s fans were left wondering if there is anything much to celebrate.
Chiefs were founded on January 7, 1970 by Kaizer Motaung in a bid to harness local talents, having played in South Africa and the United States.
Born on October 16, 1944 in the township of Orlando in Soweto, Motaung started playing in the streets of Phefeni before his talents were noticed as a school teenager, going on to sign for Orlando Pirates when he was 16.
He would later move on to play in the United States where he turned out for Atlanta Chiefs and it was while there that he had a vision to change the face of South African football.
Upon returning home in 1969, he decided to start a club that would identify and harness local talents and on January 7, 1970, Kaizer Chiefs were born. He named them after himself and his former team.
Chiefs struggles far from over
Under his guidance, the Glamour Boys have become the darling of South Africa and Africa, winning 13 league titles, the most in the country, and over 42 cups.
However, in recent years, Chiefs have become a shell of their former selves, struggling for results on the pitch, and even now as they turn 55, it is still not known which direction they are headed as new coach Nasreddine Nabi is facing the same problems he was brought in to sort out.
Chiefs are placed seventh on the PSL table with just 15 points from 11 games, having won four, lost as many and drawn three matches, with leaders Mamelodi Sundowns having double the points they have garnered.
It is a situation that has seen Motaung issue a rallying call to those connected to the club, urging them not to abandon the team, while promising a change in fortunes in future.
“As we celebrate 55 years, we also acknowledge the challenges we have faced along the way. Football, like life, is filled with ups and downs, yet it is during those tough times that we have learned the most,” Motaung said via statement posted on the club’s website.
Motaung promises change in fortunes
“Our ability to adapt, innovate, and overcome obstacles has strengthened our resolve and united us as a club. Looking forward, we are more determined than ever to continue building a future that honours our past while embracing the potential that lies ahead.
“On this momentous occasion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every individual who has been part of our journey – past and present. To our former players, coaches, and staff who laid the groundwork for our success, thank you for your contributions and sacrifices. To our fans, your loyalty inspires us daily; you remind us of why we do what we do. Your support is the fuel that drives our ambitions and keeps the flame of Kaizer Chiefs burning bright.
“As we move forward into the next phase of our journey, our commitment to excellence continues to drive us forward. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Kaizer Chiefs remains a club that our supporters are proud of; a club that upholds the traditions of our founding fathers and embraces the modern landscape of football. Together, we shall strive for more victories, more memories, and an even greater legacy.”
Will Nabi get the players he needs?
As part of their celebrations, Chiefs have made tickets for Wednesday’s PSL clash against Stellenbosch at the FNB Stadium available for just R30 in a bid to attract as many fans as possible.
The supporters will, however, be looking forward to entertainment and victory from Nabi’s team whose inconsistent run has seen confidence from the fans wane.
Nabi is also crying out for reinforcement in this month’s transfer window and Chiefs’ commitment to his project will be tested by how well they handle the market.
Chiefs are entering the 10th year since they last won a trophy, the 2014-15 PSL title being the last piece of silverware they laid their hands on and good activities in the transfer market will give fans hope of a change in fortunes in the near future.
