Kaizer Chiefs progressed to the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup on Saturday, keeping their hopes of winning the first piece of silverware in the Komphela era alive. DEAN WORKMAN explores.

Steve Komphela’s predecessor, Stuart Baxter, took over at the Glamour Boys in 2012. The Englishman led Amakhosi to a number of titles during his successful reign, winning the Absa Premiership on two occasions, the Nedbank Cup and the MTN 8.

The former Martizburg United coach stepped into the Chiefs hotseat in 2015 but has failed to live up to expectations and, despite constant claims that he is working on instilling a club philosophy, he has failed to lift any silverware which, ultimately, at a club like Chiefs, is not good enough.

This lack of silverware has seen the Naturena faithful turn on their manager recently, with many calling for him to go.

There has been no official word on whether Komphela will have his contract at Chiefs extended beyond this season, but it is looking more likely by the game that his time at the club is nearing an end.

Victories over Golden Arrows, Stellenbosch United and Baroka FC have seen the Glamour Boys progress to the latter stages of the Nedbank Cup. Chiefs have now been drawn against Free State Stars in the semi-finals, leaving the hope of silverware alive for both Komphela and his team.

With Mamelodi Sundowns also still in the competition and facing the task of beating a talented team under Luc Eymael, success is by no means guaranteed. However, If the former defender can guide his team to their first piece of silverware of his era, it could well prove to be the perfect farewell for both the Amakhosi and Steve Komphela.

Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix