Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson addresses league title chances, saying it’s too early to decide who will win it. Image Source: (@KaizerChiefs/Twitter)
Kaizer Chiefs: The tactical tweak Johnson MUST make
Kaizer Chiefs interim boss Cavin Johnson needs to change things up because it’s not working at the moment. We have a suggestion.
Kaizer Chiefs interim coach Cavin Johnson addresses league title chances, saying it’s too early to decide who will win it. Image Source: (@KaizerChiefs/Twitter)
Kaizer Chiefs looked more effective against Orlando Pirates when they used the width of the pitch, as opposed to keeping things narrow with a possession-based approach. Here’s how Cavin Johnson could adjust his system.
RUMOUR: Kaizer Chiefs outcast to get a surprise call-up?
Possession doesn’t win you football matches
How often have we seen the Glamour Boys hog the ball and have more shots in a match than their opponents, only to fail to create clear-cut opportunities and get sucker punched? It’s more often than fans would like to admit. Amakhosi had 58% of the ball but failed to make the most of it, mustering just one shot on target. They also completed 132 more passes and boasted an 84% pass accuracy, superior to Pirates’ 74%. What did they do with it though? Fans don’t want to see stale possession, they want to see effective attacks and goals. A wing-based, transitional approach could pay dividends.
ICYMI: Kaizer Chiefs and Richards Bay ponder a triple deal
Mdu Shabalala to play a key role
If the Glamour Boys can become a more effective counter-attacking side, Mduduzi Shabalala will be key in that transition. Christian Saile, meanwhile, also deserves a run in the side and not just the occasional start. Keagan Dolly can also contribute in this regard, but he’s not a conventional winger like the other two. Whether Johnson is willing to use pure wingers on both flanks from the start is up for debate but it seems to be worth a shot at this stage.
REVEALED: The Chiefs Christmas wish list
PSL: Latest news ahead of Soweto Derby vs Swallows
Who would you start against the Dube Birds if you were Cavin Johnson? Let us know in the comments section below.
Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, news, views and commentary.
Also, follow The South African on X for up-to-the-minute news updates
