Cedric Kaze Praises Kaizer Chiefs’ ‘Unsung Hero’ for Crucial Contributions
- Cedric Kaze has named Kaizer Chiefs' unsung hero despite the team's struggle in their recent games in the Premier Soccer League
- The Amakhosi assistant coach backed the Kaizer Chiefs player despite being criticised by some for his performance this season
- The Soweto giants started the season on a good note, but their ongoing coaching issue is directly affecting their performance on the pitch
Kaizer Chiefs’ second assistant coach Cedric Kaze has hailed Sibongiseni “Ox” Mthethwa as one of the club’s unsung heroes, praising the midfielder’s tireless work and selfless attitude amid the team's struggle in the 2025/26 campaign.
Source: Instagram
Kaze is currently in charge of Amakhosi alongside Khalil Ben Youssef. Nasreddine Nabi's departure has not yet been confirmed, and the date of his return from Tunisia is still not mentioned.
The former AS FAR Rabat head coach's last match in charge of the Glamour Boys was their 3-1 home defeat against Eric Tinkler's Sekhukhune United on September 16.
Chiefs have since played four matches under the guidance of Kaze and Ben Youssef, registering one win, two draws, and one defeat.
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The two assistant coaches managed to secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup's second preliminary round after edging Kabuscorp in a penalty shootout.
Kaze names Kaizer Chiefs' unsung hero
Speaking about standout performers during this challenging run, Kaze singled out Mthethwa for his relentless commitment:
“Players like ‘Ox’ [Sibongiseni Mthethwa] get criticised a lot, but he’s one of those who quietly hold the team together,” Kaze said.
“He doesn’t look for recognition or do flashy things, but he works incredibly hard, he tracks back, wins tackles, and does the dirty work that others often avoid. He’s a real team player.”
Mthethwa’s influence hasn’t gone unnoticed by Ben Youssef either, who lauded the 31-year-old for his consistency and leadership.
“He gives us balance and defensive stability,” said Ben Youssef. “He’s the only player who’s played every match for the full 90 minutes this season. He’s without a doubt one of our key figures.”
Kaze also drew comparisons to Yusuf Maart, who joined SV Ried in Austria this summer, who also faced similar backlash last season despite playing a vital role in Chiefs’ Nedbank Cup win.
“Yusuf was also heavily criticised, but he had a big mentality. He helped us win silverware,” Kaze concluded.
“As coaches, our job is to protect the players because they give everything. The results aren’t there yet, but they’re working hard, and I promise the fans, the results will come. The team is starting to come together.”
Source: Getty Images
Kaze will lead the team against Stellenbosch FC in the Carling Knockout Cup first round this weekend, with Nabi yet to return to the club.
Kaze on claims that Nabi was betrayed
Briefly News also reported that coach Cedric Kaze responded to growing speculation that head coach Nasreddine Nabi was betrayed as they continue to manage the club in his absence.
Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef have been in charge of Amakhosi in the absence of Nabi.
Source: Briefly News
