Kaizer Chiefs: Interim Coach Cavin Johnson Issues Apology to Fans Following Nedbank Cup Upset

• Kaizer Chiefs interim coach has issued an apology to fans after their Nedbank Cup loss
• Amakhosi unexpectedly lost 5-4 on post-match penalties to second-tier side Milford FC
• Johnson has vowed to bounce back in the DSTV Premiership against Moroka Swallows

Kaizer Chiefs interim coach, Cavin Johnson, has apologized to the club's extensive fanbase after another disappointing loss, extending the team's trophy drought is nearing a decade.

The recent setback came as Milford FC, a second-tier side, eliminated Amakhosi from the Nedbank Cup.

Despite their sixth-place position in the DStv Premiership, the club is set to endure a ninth consecutive season without securing any silverware.

The match ended 0-0 in regulation time, with the underdogs eventually prevailing 5-4 on penalties after extra time at FNB Stadium on Sunday, February 25.

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Chiefs squandered numerous opportunities throughout the game, including hitting the post twice and missing a penalty. Milford's goalkeeper, Siphamandla Hleza, emerged as the hero with several crucial saves and the decisive penalty in the shootout, as reported by News24.

The loss prompted widespread criticism from fans, who expressed frustration on various platforms. Acknowledging the disappointment, Johnson publicly apologized to the club's estimated 16 million supporters during his post-match press conference.

“You’ve got to apologise to them, the 16 million supporters we have. And I am sure they will have seen the game on television — it’s not like we allowed the team [Milford] to come at us and I think they never had a shot at goal," said Johnson, as quoted by Times Live.

Looking ahead, the manager stressed the importance of focusing on the league and vowed to bounce back.

Chiefs, currently trailing 14 points behind league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, are scheduled to face Moroka Swallows in their upcoming fixture at FNB Stadium on Sunday, March 3.

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Amid the disappointment, Johnson found a silver lining in the performance of young midfielder Mfundo Vilakazi. Vilakazi, making his debut at 18 years old, showcased glimpses of his talent during the match. While the result was disappointing, the interim boss praised the young midfielder's composure and expressed optimism about his future.

How Chiefs could land Pitso Mosimane

Sports Brief reported South African tactician Pitso Mosimane was still being linked with a move to Kaizer Chiefs despite his deal with Abha Club.

The former Mamelodi Sundowns coach was without a job for months before signing a short-term deal with the Saudi Pro League minnows.

The 59-year-old has been tasked with keeping Abha in the first division, with the club currently languishing in the SPL's relegation zone.