Kaizer Chiefs, once the dominant force in South African football, saw their struggles deepen with a 2-0 defeat to Polokwane City on Sunday. The loss leaves the Soweto giants languishing in ninth place on the Premiership table, trailing league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates by 10 points.
In scorching conditions in Polokwane, Oswin Appollis put the hosts ahead after 17 minutes, driving a low shot across goalkeeper Brandon Peterson from a tight angle. Despite Chiefs’ attempts to mount a comeback, Polokwane sealed the win in the final minute of regular time when Mokibelo Ramabu capitalised on a loose ball after Peterson failed to hold onto a shot.
The win propels Polokwane to third place, an impressive feat for a club operating on a fraction of Chiefs’ budget.
Despite only one win in their last six matches across all competitions, Tunisian coach Noureddine Nabi remains optimistic. Speaking post-match, Nabi said, “The team is heading in the right direction.”
Nabi, hired for his success with clubs in Tanzania and Morocco, is tasked with ending Chiefs’ eight-year trophy drought. However, their current form suggests a challenging road ahead.
Founded in 1970, Kaizer Chiefs boast a record 53 domestic titles and the 2001 African Cup Winners Cup. But their ongoing slump has left fans frustrated, with the club struggling to reclaim its former glory.
Chiefs will need to regroup quickly as they face a daunting Premiership campaign. Meanwhile, Polokwane City’s unexpected rise adds a fresh twist to the league, further highlighting Chiefs’ plight.
