We need to keep our heads up – Kaizer Chiefs coach Cedric Kaze after heavy defeat against Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs coach Cedric Kaze remains defiant despite a humbling 3-0 loss to fierce rivals Orlando Pirates at a packed FNB Stadium on Sunday.

The defeat, coupled with Durban City’s victory, has pushed the Amakhosi out of the top four in the Betway Premiership, leaving them with 30 points, trailing leaders Pirates and second-placed Mamelodi Sundowns, who both sit on 41 points.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the game, Kaze acknowledged the strength of their opponents but remained optimistic about his team’s title ambitions.

“I believe the opponent deserved the win,” the Burundian tactician admitted. “We were nowhere near them. In the first four or five minutes, we conceded a goal from a short corner. Maybe it affected the way we wanted to start the game.”

Kaze pointed to a more positive second-half display, highlighting his players’ determination to turn the game around. “In the second half, we came out with better intentions and better ideas,” he said. “The opponents used their tricks in the first 15 minutes, falling down every minute to slow us down. After the third goal, Miguel went off, leaving us a man down, and we struggled to manage those moments.”

Despite the disappointment, Kaze emphasized the long road ahead in the PSL, with 13 games remaining. “It’s a very big disappointment, but we still have 13 games to go. We need to keep our heads up. It’s a very difficult pill to swallow, but we have to swallow it and get back to the training field to work harder,” he stated, sending a clear message of resilience and determination.

Kaizer Chiefs now face the challenge of regrouping and re-energizing their campaign if they hope to climb back into title contention. With Kaze’s leadership and a renewed focus, the Amakhosi remain committed to fighting for every point as the Betway Premiership enters its critical final stretch.