Kaizer Chiefs season review: One step forward, two steps back as Amakhosi end trophy drought late but still miss the mark in a frustrating 2024–25 campaign

It was another forgettable Premier Soccer League campaign for Amakhosi. Finishing in ninth place, far from the standards expected of a club of Chiefs’ stature, the team once again failed to qualify for next season’s MTN8. This marked yet another missed opportunity to reestablish themselves among the domestic elite.

Their league form was marred by inconsistency. One week, they looked somewhat organized; the next, they were disjointed and flat. Tactical adjustments were made and individual performances occasionally shone through, but the side never truly clicked. For fans, it was déjà vu, a season filled with more questions than answers.

If there was one bright spot, it was undoubtedly the Nedbank Cup. Chiefs finally delivered a trophy and offered their long-suffering fans a reason to celebrate. The journey to lifting the cup wasn’t always smooth, but it revealed something the league form had hidden: resilience and grit.

Nabi’s men showed composure under pressure, managing to grind out wins even when not at their best. It was a much-needed morale boost and perhaps a glimpse of what could be achieved if the team finds its balance. The cup success was more than just silverware, it was a psychological breakthrough, a reminder that Chiefs can win again.

Chiefs were busy in the transfer market, and while some of their signings turned out to be astute, others fell flat. One of the standout additions was Glody Lilepo, who quickly became the heartbeat of the attack with his flair, pace and timely goals. In midfield, Thabo Cele was a picture of consistency, offering calmness and control in high-pressure situations. And after a rough start to his life at Chiefs, Inacio Miguel emerged as a reliable figure at the back.

However, not every signing made the desired impact. Bradley Cross struggled defensively and often appeared overwhelmed, while Tashreeq Morris barely got a look-in, leaving little impression. Gaston Sirino, who arrived amid much fanfare, has yet to fully find his rhythm in Amakhosi colours. Meanwhile, the short-term loan return of Njabulo Blom from MLS brought hope, but he will make his way back to the USA.

Overall, Chiefs' transfer business scored a lukewarm 6/10. While there were encouraging signs, the squad remains in flux. A more targeted and refined recruitment strategy is urgently needed, especially in key areas like defence and attack.

Nabi’s debut season in charge was a mixed bag. The Tunisian tactician came in with a mandate to stabilise and rebuild and while the Nedbank Cup win was a massive feather in his cap, his failure to translate that success into league consistency was a glaring issue.

To his credit, there were moments of promise. In cup competitions, Chiefs looked tactically sharper and mentally tougher. But over the grind of a league season, the team frequently looked unsure of itself. Urgency and cohesion were often lacking. That said, Nabi showed he has the temperament for big games - now he needs time, resources and most importantly, consistency to back it up.

Grade: C+ - A commendable cup triumph, but the league campaign leaves much to be desired.

Several players stepped up at different points, but one name stands out - Glody Lilepo. Despite joining the team late in the January transfer window, his dynamic forward play added much-needed flair and unpredictability to the Amakhosi attack. Whether scoring crucial goals or creating chances out of nothing, Lilepo was the engine that kept Chiefs going during rough spells.

While Thabo Cele was a calm and intelligent presence in midfield, and Inacio Miguel proved dependable in defence as the season wore on, it was Lilepo’s energy and creativity that often saved Chiefs. 

The Nedbank Cup victory offers a lifeline - a platform on which Chiefs can build. But it must not be mistaken for a finished product. The off-season now becomes critical. Chiefs must define a clear tactical identity and build a squad that reflects it. Defensive reinforcements and a clinical striker should be top priorities. At the same time, investment in youth development and long-term planning can’t be overlooked.

There’s also the need to trim the fat - fringe players and under-performers must be moved on to make space for fresh, hungry talent. The trophy was a start, not a destination. For Chiefs to return to the summit of South African football, they need more than a cup - they need consistency, clarity and conviction.