Kaizer Chiefs’ Kwinika says Richards Bay match is key to new-season progress

Kaizer Chiefs defender Zitha Kwinika says the club’s approach to matches such as Wednesday’s meeting with Richards Bay reflects a “different mission” under new coach Fernando da Cruz.

Chiefs have won two and drawn one of their opening three league fixtures, a start that has seen them set the pace alongside their biggest rivals, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, who are accustomed to competing at the top of South African football.

They face Richards Bay away from home at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu in their fourth league match, and Kwinika believes the contest is just as important as meetings with the traditionally bigger teams.

“Obviously, Richards Bay is a difficult team to play against, yes, we give them the respect, but we also have our objectives, so we know what we expect and we have prepared well for them,” points out the experienced defender.

Kwinika, who was born in Soweto, said Chiefs have identified matches against opponents such as Richards Bay as fixtures in which they must collect points if they are to remain near the top of the table.

“This season, we are in a different mission of saying the games that we need to collect points (from) are such games (against Richards Bay).

He added that Chiefs could not afford to concentrate only on the so-called big games, particularly when an underestimation of less high-profile opponents could damage their progress.

“…but on these games that when one is not in a good frame of mind taking it lightly.”

The defender said the squad’s mindset had changed, with matches such as the one against Richards Bay now being treated as major occasions.

“I think it is bigger than the ones that we played because these are important points for us, so the attitude shifts and we grind even more.

“So, we will give them the respect they deserve but work as hard as we can,” he outlines.

Kwinika has played every minute of Chiefs’ season so far, forming a defensive partnership with Inacio Miguel. The 32-year-old is in his fifth season since returning to the club and remains an influential figure in the dressing room.

He feels the squad is adapting well to both Da Cruz’s coaching staff and the demands of a new campaign, with early performances suggesting a change in playing style and structure.

“I think the team is also coping well with the new coaches and the new season.

“I think we have proven in the games we have played that we, I would say, are a different team, style of play, and the structure.”

Kwinika said the team’s development was visible as the players became more familiar with the approach expected of them.

“I think it has been proven that there is improvement and there are new ticks that are being placed and trying to get to a certain way of playing that we enjoy and that we all understand in getting better as a team.

He also highlighted the contribution of the club’s younger players. Langelihle Phili has already scored, while Luke Baartman, who has been around the first-team squad, is now receiving opportunities to start matches.

“The new players are gelling well…to name like your (Langelihle) Phili scored a goal and your (Luke) Baartman, yes, they have been with the team but now getting an opportunity to start games.

“That shows we are in the right direction, and most players are understanding what’s required from them.”

For Kwinika, the next step is to turn the encouraging beginning into consistent victories. He believes positive results are the most effective way of maintaining momentum and building confidence within the squad.

“Obviously, to keep the momentum is for us to get positive results.

“I think that is the best way to keep the momentum, getting good results, mainly winning games, that’s the only way to keep the momentum going in the environment and the confidence.

“So, I think getting used to winning is important because it just creates an environment of winners and winners get stronger by day,” says Kwinika.