Lucky Stylianou Celebrates Kaizer Chiefs Win but Warns of Technical Decline in SA Football
While Kaizer Chiefs fans continue to revel in the team’s dramatic victory over Mamelodi Sundowns to reach the Nedbank Cup final, club legend and former professional footballer Lucky Stylianou has struck a more cautious tone, raising concerns over a deeper issue affecting South African football — a decline in technical proficiency, particularly in the attacking third.
Stylianou, renowned for his footballing insight, acknowledged Chiefs’ impressive tactical display in the semifinal, especially their defensive structure and midfield control. However, he highlighted what he believes is a worrying trend — the lack of precision and composure in front of goal, something he says was evident despite Chiefs’ triumph.
“Kaizer Chiefs had chances against Sundowns but missed most of them. Out of 19 shots, none were really on target,” Stylianou reflected. “This isn’t just a Chiefs problem – it’s something I see in many South African footballers. They get into scoring positions but lack the technique and composure to finish properly. It’s a basic skill that seems to be missing, even at the highest level.”
Stylianou praised the team’s discipline in defence and midfield, commending their structure and ability to limit a dangerous Sundowns side. Yet he believes the final third remains a critical area that requires urgent attention.
“From the goalkeeper to the midfield, things looked solid. One or two tweaks in the attacking department, and the team could be much more effective,” he said. “Players need to better understand their roles and zones on the pitch. If every player knows where to be and when, it becomes very hard to concede goals — and easier to punish the opponent.”
The former Amakhosi star didn’t stop at local football, suggesting this lack of technical sharpness is becoming a broader issue in the global game.
“There are too many players — worldwide even — who are not comfortable on the ball. They give it away too easily, and that often leads to conceding goals. That’s a major red flag at this level,” he warned.
Stylianou emphasized the importance of finishing ability as a tactical component that needs more emphasis in modern coaching.
“It’s not enough to dominate the midfield or defend well – you have to be ruthless up front,” he said. “What I saw on Sunday was Sundowns with only one real shot on target outside of that free kick. Chiefs had the chances, but they weren’t making the keeper work. Strikers need to do more than just ‘have a go’ – they need to finish.”
Despite his concerns, Stylianou remains hopeful. He ended his assessment with optimism, believing the team is heading in the right direction.
“I’m happy. Not just because of the win on Sunday night, but because I saw signs of a team that can improve further,” he concluded. “Now it’s about tightening up the basics and getting those technical elements right.”
As Chiefs prepare for their showdown with Orlando Pirates in the Nedbank Cup final, Stylianou’s words may serve as both a celebration and a caution — a reminder that true progress lies not only in results, but in the details of performance.
