Unexpected but earned, says Khumalo on Chiefs’ rise

KAIZER Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has urged calm and perspective as Amakhosi continue to exceed expectations domestically and on the continent, warning against allowing encouraging standings to distort the reality of a team still in transition.

- SMISO MSOMI

Chiefs currently sit third in the Betway Premiership with 30 points from 15 matches, firmly positioned behind Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, while also leading CAF Confederation Cup Group D with 10 points, placing qualification firmly within reach.

For Khumalo, those positions reflect progress — but not completion.

“Nobody expected them to be where they are but those are words that are uttered outside the Kaizer Chiefs family at Naturena,” Doctor expressed.

The former midfield maestro believes Chiefs’ current standing should not distort the broader reality of where the team is in its development cycle.

“The focus from here on should not be to necessarily show us that Chiefs are the best team in the country because they are work in progress. They have to take everything step by step and not rush things,” he explained.

Chiefs’ league position reflects a side that has learned to manage games better, while their continental campaign has shown an ability to absorb pressure in unfamiliar environments.