Youssef: We Didn’t Promise the Trophy

By Benjamin Nyirenda

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef says expectations must remain realistic this season, stressing that the club’s primary targets are a top-four finish in the Betway Premiership and securing at least one trophy.

Speaking after Wednesday night’s goalless draw with Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Youssef said it would be unfair to assume Amakhosi are ready to challenge for the league title so soon after finishing ninth last season.

“It’s a process,” he said. “It’s not easy to go from where we were to where we are now. Everything comes with work. We can’t just sit and say we have to be there or do this. We have to continue, we have to believe, and we don’t have to put a lot of pressure.”

Youssef noted that strong early-season form has led some supporters to talk about league glory, but he insisted Chiefs had never made such promises.

“Because we are performing well in the PSL, people will start to discuss the trophy,” he said. “We didn’t promise the trophy. Yes, we are a big team and we always play for trophies, but we have to be logical in our mentality. Last season, we were number nine. First, we have to finish in the top four. If we get the opportunity to win one trophy, we’ll fight for it. The idea is to build step by step.”

Reflecting on the match, Youssef said Chiefs improved after halftime but wasted too many chances.

“I have to congratulate the players for their performance,” he said. “After the cup game and with only four days to prepare, we expected a tough, physical match. In the first half, we didn’t play well. We were following Chippa’s game plan. But in the second half, we controlled the game and created a lot of opportunities. This problem has been there since the start of the season.”

Chiefs now turn their attention to Sunday’s clash against TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium, their final fixture of 2025. A win would strengthen their push for a top-four finish and help set the tone for the second half of the campaign.