Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfield general Hlompho Kekana has publicly criticized Kaizer Chiefs players for their on-field antics during a crucial continental match. The critique centers on what Kekana perceives as unnecessary showboating after Amakhosi had secured a comfortable lead....Click to Read More >>➤

The incident occurred during Kaizer Chiefs’ 3-1 victory over DR Congo’s AS Simba in a CAF Confederation Cup playoff this past Sunday. The win, secured at Dobsonville Stadium, successfully propelled the Soweto giants into the tournament’s lucrative group stages. Despite the positive result, the team’s celebratory flair in the latter stages did not sit well with the decorated former Sundowns captain.

Chiefs ‘have to respect the opponent’

Drawing from his extensive experience in African competitions, Kekana questioned the timing and sportsmanship of the players’ actions. He expressed his views candidly on SABC Sport’s Soccer Zone program.

“My question is, can you do that when the score is 0-0? Can you do that when the score is 1-0 against you? Can you do that when you need a winning goal?” Kekana posed to the audience. He stressed the fundamental importance of respecting the opposing team, regardless of the scoreline.

The former midfielder offered a player’s perspective on how such displays can provoke opponents. He suggested that being on the receiving end of showboating while losing could easily lead to frustration and reckless challenges. “You have to respect the opponent,” Kekana insisted. “Because if they do that to you when you’re losing a match, I’m sure you can get a red card … you’ll want to kick them.”

Kekana concluded his point by firmly stating his disapproval. “That’s something I don’t condone as a former footballer,” he said. “I know what it means when you’re losing the match and people start showboating.” His comments highlight a broader debate about professionalism and gamesmanship in modern football.

Focus shifts to Confederation Cup draw and league duty

With their continental place now confirmed, the next step for Kaizer Chiefs is the Confederation Cup group stage draw. The event is scheduled for Johannesburg on November 3. The group stage matches themselves are set to kick off later in the month on November 23.

Before returning to continental action, Kaizer Chiefs must refocus on their domestic campaign. The team faces a challenging DStv Premiership encounter this Friday. They are set to travel to the Moses Mabhida Stadium for a clash with a resurgent Durban City side, now under the guidance of veteran coach Gavin Hunt.

The match presents a significant test for Amakhosi. The club, led by coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, is currently seeking its first league victory in five outings. Their opponents, Durban City, have been formidable on their home turf this season. They have collected ten points from a possible twelve in home matches, although all those games were played at their usual Chatsworth Stadium base. This fixture will be a true measure of Kaizer Chiefs’ ability to bounce back from a difficult domestic spell while managing the demands of a dual competition schedule. ...Click to Read More >>➤