Cedric Kaze Praises Velebayi and Maboe After Impressive Kaizer Chiefs Debuts

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has applauded debutants Velebayi and Lebohang Maboe following their strong performances in the club’s dominant win that secured a place in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages.

After a goalless first leg in Lubumbashi, the Amakhosi came into the return fixture determined to finish the job. They did so in style. Striker Etiosa Ighodaro opened the scoring on his second start for the club, while Zitha Kwinika and Glody Lilepo added goals before halftime, putting Chiefs three goals up by the break.

Velebayi and Maboe were both introduced in the second half, marking their official debuts for the club. Kaze said it was the ideal setting to give the new signings a taste of competitive action.

“They were very good. It’s the kind of match where, once you have the advantage, you can introduce new players, help them gain confidence, and build from that,” Kaze told SABC Sport.

The coach expressed satisfaction with how both players handled the pressure of stepping into a high-stakes continental fixture. Their debut minutes offered a glimpse into Chiefs’ growing depth and flexibility under the new technical setup.

Kaze also praised the attacking duo of Etiosa Ighodaro and Glody Lilepo for their roles in the team’s fluid offensive display.

“We wanted different combinations. Players who can make the final pass, deliver on set-pieces, and take shots when needed,” he said. “Having a striker like Ighodaro in the box, who is strong in the air, gives us an advantage. Lilepo’s speed gives us another option in attack.”

The match highlighted the balance between experience and youth that Kaizer Chiefs have been trying to achieve. With the team advancing to the Confederation Cup group stages, Kaze and his technical team will look to continue refining their attacking structure while integrating new talent.

For Velebayi and Maboe, the debut could be the start of a new chapter in their Chiefs careers. Both players showed promise, and with more opportunities, they could become key parts of Kaze’s long-term plans.

Kaizer Chiefs’ convincing victory not only boosted team morale but also signaled that the squad’s rebuild is beginning to take shape. The blend of tactical discipline, fresh energy, and improved attacking coordination offers renewed optimism for the club’s continental campaign.