Kaze: Mthethwa's Success Needs 'Love' Like a Relationship

Kaze Believes Mthethwa Thrives on Confidence and Support

Kaizer Chiefs assistant coach Cedric Kaze praises Sibongiseni Mthethwa's remarkable performance this season, attributing it to the confidence he has developed—a sentiment Kaze likens to 'giving love to a girlfriend.'

While receiving some criticism from fans, Mthethwa has consistently been a standout performer for Amakhosi, participating in every game across all competitions this season.

Kaze explained his management approach with a compelling analogy.

“I believe every player is like having a girlfriend; he needs to feel love,” Kaze stated.

“The plan is to feel loved. He needs someone to take care of him, he needs someone to support him even when he’s not doing well.”

Kaze emphasized that when a player feels appreciated, they are more likely to showcase their skills on the field, leading to positive outcomes for the team.

Mthethwa's performance this season substantiates Kaze's strategy. The midfielder, formerly of Stellenbosch, has already secured two man-of-the-match accolades, one for a stellar performance against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership and another against Stellenbosch in the Carling Knockout's last 16, despite Chiefs eventually losing in penalties.

A defining moment for Mthethwa came as he helped end Chiefs' decade-long trophy drought in May, playing a vital role in the Nedbank Cup final against Orlando Pirates. He blocked a shot from Mbekezeli Mbokazi that set up a sequence of passes culminating in Yusuf Maart's winning goal, assisted by Ashley Du Preez.

Kaze credited Mthethwa's achievements to the confidence fostered by the coaching staff and his teammates.

“I think when the confidence is there, then the player can express himself, and I believe that’s how we’ve been working with him and others, and that’s reflective in the results,” he remarked.

The 31-year-old aims to sustain his excellent form as Amakhosi prepare to face AS Simba of Congo in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round after the FIFA international break.