Cedric Kaze shares Kaizer Chiefs observation of Dobsonville pitch

Cedric Kaze shares Kaizer Chiefs observation of Dobsonville pitch

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze says they made an interesting observation about the pitch at Dobsonville Stadium compared to their regular home FNB Stadium.

Chiefs will be playing at an unfamiliar venue tomorrow when they take on DR Congo’s AS Simba in the CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary round second leg.  

There’s a common belief that the pitch sizes differ between the two venues, but Kaze has shared his perspective. 

"We have actually done some measurements of the pitch, and surprisingly we found that it's bigger than the pitch at FNB [Stadium]," revealed Kaze.

"So there's no excuse, the pitch is beautiful and when the crowd is closer to the pitch, it gives more energy to the players, you feel the 12th man alive, and that's what we want on Sunday."

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The Burundi-born tactician also says they will draw inspiration from their home game in the previous round against Angolan side Kabuscorp, whom they beat 1-0 at FNB Stadium before progressing with a penalty shootout victory.

"I believe that game was one of our best, even though we only managed to score one goal, but I believe we had five or six opportunities to score in that game," he added.

"The intensity was good, the accuracy, the technical combinations and the balance of the team offensively and defensively was good, and I believe if we are to replicate that performance, I think [the outcome] will be very positive."

Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Lebohang Maboe, who boasts extensive continental experience, could finally make his debut this weekend, but Kaze kept his cards close to his chest. 

"We consider everyone for this game, and it's true that his experience – along with other players' – might come in handy for the pressure and excitement of these kinds of games.

"Because sometimes it's not only tactical and technical, it also has to do with keeping your cool, mentally don't be over-excited, but also don't be too relaxed, so the experience comes with the balance of not being too emotional as well," he concluded.