Kaizer Chiefs defender Inacio Miguel explains why he slows the game

Kaizer Chiefs vice-captain Inacio Miguel says supporters must understand the tactical reasons behind his decision to slow the tempo during matches at the Calabash, after being jeered on occasions for retaining possession from defence.

The Angola international has increasingly taken responsibility for starting attacks from his centre-back position. However, his preference to pause before moving the ball forward has frustrated sections of the Chiefs support, who want to see the team attack more quickly.

Miguel, 29, said his decisions are guided by instructions from the coach and by the demands of the match. He added that Chiefs do not always intend to play at a high speed, particularly when a hurried approach could expose them to danger.

“I can understand the frustrations of the supporters, sometimes they want things to happen very quick, you know, but first of all I have orders to follow by the coach,” Miguel said.

“Sometimes we have a game plan where sometimes we are not supposed to play so quick.”

The defender also believes that slowing the game gives Chiefs an opportunity to restore their shape and check that his team-mates are in the right positions before the next move is made.

“Sometimes it’s important to make the team be organised, to understand where my teammates are. Are they ready to play, are they not ready to play? So obviously it’s part of the game,” he added.

“It’s part of the tactics. I can understand the frustrations, they want us to score as soon as possible we also want that.

“But it’s not like that in every single game.”

Miguel cited Chiefs’ meeting with Mamelodi Sundowns as a clear example of why patience can be important. Sundowns are the reigning CAF Champions League winners, and the Glamour Boys are preparing to face them again in another demanding contest.

He warned that trying to force the pace against a team of Sundowns’ quality could work against Chiefs by allowing their opponents to find their rhythm.

“Especially, for example, the game against Sundowns if you try to rush things, Sundowns can also get in the mood and you will fight against them,” he explained.

“Sometimes it’s important to cool down. It’s part of the game, it’s part of the tactics.

“But I can’t say I don’t understand the frustration of supporters. They want us to play to win, of course.”

The fixture between the two sides takes place on Saturday afternoon at FNB Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. It is a top-of-the-table clash, adding further significance to a match in which Miguel believes careful control could be as important as attacking ambition.

While Chiefs supporters want their side to push forward and score as quickly as possible, Miguel insists that managing the pace is sometimes necessary to carry out the team’s plan and avoid giving Sundowns opportunities to take control.