Tensions appear to be rising at Kaizer Chiefs following accusations of favouritism levelled against the club’s caretaker coaches, Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef. Chiefs legend Abel Shongwe has publicly criticised the duo, claiming that their player selections are undermining team balance and performance.
Since the departure of former head coach Nasreddine Nabi in September, Kaze and Ben Youssef have been tasked with leading Amakhosi until the end of the season. The pair previously served as Nabi’s assistants, helping the Soweto giants end a decade-long trophy drought last season. However, despite some success in the CAF Confederation Cup—where Chiefs have reached the group stages—their domestic form has been inconsistent. Shongwe, who represented Chiefs in his playing days, believes some of the technical decisions have been unfair. He particularly questioned the sidelining of defender Zitha Kwinika, who has recently been benched in favour of Aden McCarthy and Inacio Miguel. “Zitha Kwinika was starting and doing well, but now he is benched just because Inacio Miguel is back. For what good reason?” Shongwe asked. He suggested that favouring players based on preference rather than performance could destabilise the squad.
The former striker also shared concerns about the team’s lack of consistency, suggesting that the coaches are yet to find the right starting combination. He added that Congolese forward Glody Lilepo, despite flashes of brilliance, has struggled to deliver in big matches and should be used more effectively as an impact substitute. As Amakhosi continue their push for stability and results, the growing criticism from club legends like Shongwe adds pressure on Kaze and Ben Youssef to prove that their decisions are tactical, not personal. Chiefs fans will hope unity returns soon—both on and off the pitch
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