Kwinika: Chiefs ready to reset for Chippa after CAF disruption

Defender Zitha Kwinika believes Kaizer Chiefs are ready to reset after their taxing CAF Confederation Cup duties and shift their energy back into the league, when they take on Chippa United in their second last Betway Premiership fixture for the year.

The Amakhosi resume their Betway Premiership campaign on Wednesday night when they visit Chilli Boys at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium (kick-off 7.30pm). The Naturena-based outfit return to domestic duties, having collected just one point from their opening two CAF group-stage matches against Al Masry and Zamalek, respectively. 

Kwinika, who played every minute of both fixtures, believes Chiefs must quickly realign their focus and sharpen up for what awaits them in Gqeberha.

“We probably need to readjust and go back to the league again because the focus for now was still CAF,” he said. 

“The last time we played, against Orbit (College). We’ll probably need to readjust and get back to the league.”

Chiefs arrive at the fixture aiming to reclaim third place from Sekhukhune United — an achievable target given they still hold a game in hand. With only a handful of matches left before the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 break, every point carries heightened importance for a team determined to stay in the title-chasing picture.

Chiefs form, however, remains mixed, with just four wins in their last 10 matches across all competitions. Nevertheless, Kwinika insists progress is visible and believes the group is steadily absorbing the lessons from their continental challenges.

“It’s still in the process because there are still more games to play,” he said. “I think we have learned from the past two games we have played, and we are getting better.”

On a personal note, the 31-year-old is pleased with his own performances but maintains that individual rhythm means little without collective success.

“At this point, I think I am doing well, and I am happy about that — getting minutes and maybe performing at the highest level,” he said. 

“What is important also is that it’s about the team. When we get results, it makes everything nice in terms of you getting the confidence you need.”

Attention now shifts to Chippa United, a side known for their structure, discipline and ability to frustrate 'stronger' opponents. Kwinika expects no less on Wednesday.

“Now, with Chippa ahead, we expected a difficult game because it’s always tough against them,” he said. “I’ve seen them in their last games as well — they’re a tough team with good structure, but I think we’re ready for them.”

Chiefs hope the trip to Gqeberha triggers a positive league run as they look to finish the year with renewed momentum and clarity. They are scheduled to play one more game afterwards this months – an away fixture against TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit, on Sunday.