Cedric Kaze laments 'lack of intensity' in Kaizer Chiefs defeat at Siwelele

AmaKhosi had hoped to build on momentum from their hard-fought 1-1 draw against Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium, but were undone by a determined Siwelele outfit.

First-half strikes from Tebogo Potsane and Sphesihle Jeza left Chiefs chasing the game, with their response ultimately coming too late.
The result leaves Chiefs' top-three ambitions hanging in the balance, as they failed to recover from a poor opening 45 minutes.

Kaze admitted his side paid the price for their lack of intensity early on.
"It was a game of two halves. We were not there in the first half - everything from the build-up to our offensive and defensive play. We got punished," Kaze told SuperSport TV.

"Our reaction was too late. We spoke about needing to move on from the derby and focus on this game because it was always going to be tough, and that's exactly what we saw."

Despite an improved second-half showing, Kaze acknowledged that consistency remains a major concern.
"We came into the game very late, and that's something we need to improve - consistency in our mindset, behaviour, and approach going forward."

The Burundian coach also reflected on possible tactical decisions, suggesting that squad rotation may have been worth considering.
"After the game, you always ask questions - maybe more rotations, fresh legs and minds. But it's the coach's responsibility to anticipate that. Now we need to focus on being better in the next matches."

While Chiefs created several chances after the break, finishing let them down. Kaze, however, remained optimistic ahead of their next challenge against league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.

"We came back from halftime with the right mindset. We were a bit unlucky and missed many opportunities, but that's football. We'll take the positives from the second half into the next game against Sundowns."

The Glamour Boys are set to take the title contenders Sundowns on 6 May at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.