Kaizer Chiefs made three key signings in the January transfer window—Glody Lilepo, Thabo Cele, and Tashreeq Morris—aiming to bolster the squad and enhance their chances of ending a decade-long trophy drought. These additions have already begun to address crucial areas, strengthening the team’s performance as they head into the second half of the 2024/2025 Betway Premiership season.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi has been vocal about the club’s need for quality reinforcements to reignite their pursuit of silverware. And these signings could very well be the catalysts needed to get Amakhosi back on track.
Pressing from the Front: A New Edge for Chiefs
Tashreeq Morris has brought a level of intensity to Kaizer Chiefs’ pressing game that has been lacking. In their last two matches, Morris’s relentless pressure on opposing defenders disrupted their build-up play and forced critical errors. His style of pressing has been particularly evident against Stellenbosch, where Chiefs were able to stifle their opponents’ passing game. This aggressive high-pressing strategy has made a noticeable difference, with Morris leading the line more effectively than Ranga Chivaviro.
Lilepo’s Impact: A Natural Goal Threat
Glody Lilepo has been a revelation since his arrival, scoring twice and adding another dimension to Chiefs’ attack. His ability to stretch opposition defenses has opened up more space for his teammates, particularly Reeve Frosler, who has looked sharper with Lilepo’s support on the right flank. Lilepo’s presence also allows Chiefs to keep Wandile Duba in a more natural role, rather than out of position on the wing. His set-piece abilities, showcased with two dangerous free kicks against Stellenbosch, further demonstrate his value as a potential dead-ball specialist for Chiefs.
Cele’s Role: Stability and Set-Piece Mastery
Thabo Cele has been a welcome addition in the midfield, offering greater stability and improving Chiefs’ set-piece deliveries. His corner-kick deliveries have already provided better chances for Amakhosi, who now have aerial threats like Lilepo, Morris, and Inacio Miguel to capitalize on them. Cele’s pairing with Yusuf Maart in midfield has also given Chiefs more control in matches, as demonstrated in their dominant performance against Stellenbosch.
Strengthened Depth: A More Versatile Attack
With the addition of Tashreeq Morris, Kaizer Chiefs’ attacking depth has improved significantly. The forward line now includes a variety of options, such as Ashley Du Preez, Ranga Chivaviro, and Wandile Duba, ensuring Chiefs can adapt to different match situations. The depth in attack, combined with the midfield strength, has provided Nabi with greater tactical flexibility, allowing him to approach each game with more options at his disposal.
The January signings have addressed critical areas in the Chiefs squad, from pressing and attack to set-pieces and midfield stability. With these improvements, Amakhosi are well-positioned to finish the season strong and challenge for silverware. Fans have every reason to believe their team is on the verge of reclaiming its place at the top of South African football.
