Sekhukhune United replace Cedric Kaze after seven games in charge

Sekhukhune United have parted company with head coach Cedric Kaze by mutual agreement and with immediate effect, after only seven games in charge.

The club confirmed the former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach’s departure as part of a wider change to its technical team, with Papi Zothwane appointed as his replacement.

Zothwane will lead the technical team as head coach, assisted by Paulus Masehe. Nascent Nkhwashu will remain in his position as goalkeeper coach.

Kaze’s short spell at Sekhukhune United ended after the team’s final three matches under his management brought defeats against Orlando Pirates. Those losses came in both legs of the MTN8 semi-final and in the Betway Premiership.

Sekhukhune United said the decision had been reached jointly with Kaze and expressed its appreciation for his work at the club.

“Sekhukhune United Football Club announces that Head Coach Cedric Kaze has departed from the Club by mutual agreement, with immediate effect.”

The club added: “The Club expresses its sincere appreciation to Coach Kaze for his dedication, professionalism, and contribution during his tenure, and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.”

Zothwane now takes charge as Sekhukhune prepare for their next Betway Premiership fixture against TS Galaxy on Saturday evening.

The club said the coaching changes were intended to provide stability and continuity during the transition.

“As part of the coaching transition, Papi Zothwane has been appointed to lead the technical team as Head Coach, assisted by Paulus Masehe while Nascent Nkhwashu will continue in his role as Goalkeeper Coach.”

“The Club remains focused on ensuring stability, continuity, and a smooth transition as the team prepares for the challenges ahead,” the statement added.

Kaze’s departure comes after a seven-match tenure, with the last three fixtures all ending in defeat to Orlando Pirates. Two of those matches were the MTN8 semi-final legs, while the other was a Betway Premiership meeting.

Sekhukhune will return to competitive action against TS Galaxy, with Zothwane set to oversee the team following his appointment. The club has not provided any further details about the terms of Kaze’s departure beyond confirming that it was agreed by mutual consent.

The announcement represents a swift change in the club’s coaching structure, with Zothwane, Masehe and Nkhwashu now responsible for guiding the technical team into its next match.