Kaizer Chiefs have regressed over the years and there are fears that they might become like Jomo Cosmos.
In the 80s and 90s, Ezenkosi were a team to beat and were known for producing quality players. Ex-players such as Philemon Masinga, Mark Fish, and Aaron Mokoena went on to become Bafana Bafana legends. Cosmos’ success continued in the early 2000s as they won several domestic titles. At their peak, Cosmos often defeated Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates.
Kaizer Chiefs like Cosmos are no longer big teams
With the likes of Dikgang Mabalane, Tico Tico Bucuane, and Avril Phali playing in the mid-2000s, Jomo Sono had a formidable team. His biggest problem was refusing to spend money on quality players. ‘Bra J’ was a good salesman, but when it came to running the club, he wasn’t exactly successful. Cosmos, unlike Kaizer Chiefs and the other top teams, failed to bring in top players after selling
In the 2007/08 season, Ezenkosi were relegated but returned the very next season. Some thought Bra J learned his season but he continued to use the same methods that worked for him for two decades. Jomo’s luck eventually ran out in 2012 when he was relegated to the National First Division and this time, there was no return. Eight years later, Cosmos were sent to the ABC Motsepe League
Kaizer Chiefs are playing the same game as Cosmos. Last season, Amakhosi were just six points away from the relegation zone. Under Cavin Johnson, Chiefs won just two games in 2024, and had they not accumulated points in December, the Soweto Giants could have been in the PSL Play-offs.
Chiefs and Ezenkosi had a fierce rivarly in the 80s and 90s
Just like Cosmos, Kaizer Chiefs are not known for spending money on coaches and players. Last year, the Glamour Boys had a chance to sign the Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi, but the deal fell through. It was revealed that Chiefs did not have the money to pay off their technical staff to make way for Nabi and his team. In the past, Amakhosi have offered little money for players, which teams turned away. In the last nine seasons, their lack of spending has backfired. The club has not tasted success in a decade and has gone nine full years without silverware.
In the case of Cosmos, the club owner Jomo refused to spend money, whereas with Kaizer Chiefs, it’s the management. After another disappointing campaign, the clock is ticking for the Motaungs.
