Kaizer Chiefs appoint Patrick Mabedi as interim head coach

South African Premier Soccer League side Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed the appointment of Patrick Mabedi as the replacement for Steve Komphela, who left the head coach position late on Saturday.

The 44-year-old Malawian played for the Chiefs from 1998 to 2006. He captained the team to back-to-back Premiership titles in 2004 and 2005 and returned to the team last year as Komphela’s assistant.

Mabedi will take charge of the team for the final three games of the season against Golden Arrows, Maritzburg United and Ajax Cape Town.

He will be assisted by Arthur Zwane, who’s in charge of the Chief’s reserve team.

Komphela proud of his work

After a 2-0 defeat to Free State Stars in the Nedbank Cup semi-final on Saturday, Steve Komphela announced his departure from the Chiefs.

Despite a trophyless three season spell, at a post-match conference the South African said he believes he fulfilled what was expected of him.

‘In terms of the plan, I can say confidently without any arrogance that I’ve done what is required,’ Komphela said.

‘I strongly believe it is very difficult to win trophies when you are forming a generation. But when that generation performs, you will look back and say, hmmm it looks nice; I’m familiar with those faces.’

‘I’m happy with the integrity, responsibility and the work that I put in since my first day at Chiefs. I have never been late by a second, I’ve always been the first one in and the last one out.’

Kaizer Chiefs currently hold the fourth position on the league standings and retain hopes of fighting for the second position, which is occupied by arch rivals Orland Pirates.