Despite celebrating Kaizer Chiefs’ dramatic win over Mamelodi Sundowns to reach the Nedbank Cup Final, former professional footballer and club legend Lucky Stylianou has voiced his concern about the declining technical standards among South African players – particularly in the final third.
Stylianou, a seasoned football mind and analyst, applauded Chiefs for their overall performance in Sunday’s victory, but felt the result also highlighted a broader issue plaguing the local game.
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“Kaizer Chiefs had chances against Sundowns but missed most of them. Out of 19 shots, none were really on target,” Stylianou said, reflecting on the match.
“This isn’t just a Chiefs problem – it’s something I see in many South African footballers. They get into scoring positions but lack the technique and composure to finish properly. It’s a basic skill that seems to be missing, even at the highest level.”
While acknowledging the tactical discipline shown by Chiefs in defence and midfield, Stylianou emphasised that attacking play still needs refinement.
“From the goalkeeper to the midfield, things looked solid. One or two tweaks in the attacking department, and the team could be much more effective. Players need to better understand their roles and zones on the pitch. If every player knows where to be and when, it becomes very hard to concede goals.”
His analysis wasn’t limited to Chiefs or even Mzansi football alone. Stylianou believes this technical deficiency is becoming a global concern.
“There are too many players – worldwide even – who are not comfortable on the ball. They give it away too easily, and that often leads to conceding goals. That’s a major red flag at this level.”
The stalwart also pointed to the lack of finishing precision as a tactical hurdle coaches must start addressing more seriously.
“It’s not enough to dominate the midfield or defend well – you have to be ruthless up front. What I saw on Sunday was Sundowns with only one real shot on target outside of that free kick. Chiefs had the chances, but they weren’t making the keeper work. Strikers need to do more than just ‘have a go’ – they need to finish.”
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Still, Stylianou ended on a positive note, satisfied with the result and hopeful that the team and league will take the necessary steps to sharpen these key areas.
“I’m happy. Not just because of the win on Sunday night, but because I saw signs of a team that can improve further. Now it’s about tightening up the basics and getting those technical elements right.”
