31 October 2019, by: Leonard Solms

Kaizer Chiefs Benefiting From Solidity They Lacked Under Solinas

Ernst Middendorp has, in the recent past, been at pains to shake off the “defensive coach” label. However, in the wake of their 2-0 win over Mamelodi Sundowns, Kaizer Chiefs supporters should be proud of their prowess at the back.

Most of the post-match talk has focused on Serbian striker Samir Nurković. He deserves every bit of credit coming his way after another intelligent performance, which earned him two goals. However, Daniel Akpeyi, Erick Mathoho and Njabulo Blom deserve equal praise.

Akpeyi was a controversial signing and struggled to find his feet at Naturena, but the same determination that has served him throughout his career has seen him prove himself beyond doubt at his new club. Kaizer Chiefs have a proper Nigerian international goalkeeper on their hands — and not one who is there to make up the numbers.

Mathoho lived up to the nickname ‘Tower’ with an immense performance in defence. His class and experience showed, perhaps rubbing off on the young Blom, who looked as if he couldn’t put a foot wrong.

Mathoho and Blom made several vital interventions with Sundowns bearing down on goal. In fairness, Masandawana had several chances which they simply failed to take.

However, at the other end, the Brazilians were no match for Amakhosi and that ultimately proved the difference.

Whether or not you believe Nurković should have been flagged offside for the opener, there is no doubt that Chiefs often threatened off throw-ins and it paid off. Sundowns, for their part, didn’t do enough to cope with this aspect of Chiefs’ attack.

With five goals conceded from nine games, the Glamour Boys boast the best defensive record in the league. Bidvest Wits and Maritzburg United have conceded the same amount but in fewer fixtures.

Chiefs have always been capable of playing breathtaking football, even at times under Giovanni Solinas. However, the one missing ingredient from that era — a solid backbone — has finally been added.

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