Kaizer Chiefs vice-captain Zitha Kwinika has acknowledged the importance of improving the team’s goal difference as they resume their Betway Premiership campaign on Wednesday.
Chiefs will host Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium in their first league match of the month. Amakhosi currently occupy fourth place on the standings with 30 points from 15 matches. While they still have games in hand, their goal difference — with an 11-goal gap in goals scored — remains an area of concern.
Kwinika said the team’s experience in the CAF Confederation Cup highlighted the importance of both scoring and defensive discipline.
“We reflected on why we did not qualify in the CAF competition, and it came down to goals scored and conceded. That became a defining factor,” Kwinika said. “Everyone now understands the impact it can have later in the season. We’ve learned our lesson and we will improve.”
Chiefs trail Orlando Pirates by eight points, although they have two matches in hand, and are five points behind Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played one game more.
Co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef believes goal difference is not yet a major concern, stressing that the team’s defensive record has improved compared to last season. However, he admitted that converting scoring opportunities remains a challenge.
“Defensively we are stronger than last season, but we are struggling to convert chances,” Ben Youssef said. “There are still many games to play, so it’s early to focus heavily on goal difference. What matters is learning how to finish matches once we take the lead.”
The upcoming fixtures include crucial encounters against both Pirates and Sundowns, beginning with this weekend’s Soweto Derby.
The Premiership title race is expected to be fiercely contested, with the league now the primary focus for the country’s traditional powerhouses. Chiefs and Pirates have both exited the Nedbank Cup, while Sundowns remain in pursuit of continental success in the CAF Champions League alongside their domestic ambitions.