Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mandla Masango believes the club is showing clear signs of progress this season, even as questions continue over their coaching.
Chiefs went into the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) break sitting fourth on the Betway Premiership table after 13 matches, recording six wins, six draws, and just one defeat.
They have scored 13 goals and conceded six, highlighting a solid defensive structure, though their attacking output remains an area of concern.
Their most recent outing, a goalless draw against TS Galaxy, once again exposed the team’s struggle to convert chances. Co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef admitted finishing has been a recurring issue, adding that the AFCON break would be used to address it.
Chiefs are also facing pressure in continental football, currently sitting third in Group D of the CAF Confederation Cup after a draw and a defeat in their first two matches. Their campaign will resume in late January following AFCON.
Speaking to FARPost, Masango highlighted the progress the team has made compared to previous seasons.
“I think the way they started compared to previous seasons, they started very well,” he said.
“They are also within touching distance of challenging for the league. This time around last season, they were nowhere. So there is a bit of improvement.”
The club has been operating under co-coaches Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze since the departure of Nasreddine Nabi, a system that has drawn mixed reactions.
Some former players argue it can create confusion and send mixed messages to the squad, but Masango believes the team is moving in the right direction.