Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele believes the time for words is over.
With the Amakhosi struggling for consistency this season, he insists that the only way to get back on track is by showing their response on the pitch, not by talking about it.
After suffering a 2-0 defeat to Richards Bay in their last match before the Fifa break, Cele and the team are looking to make a real impact in their next games, starting with a clash against Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday (3.30pm kick-off).
“Fans don’t need to hear more talk from us. What they need now is to see a reaction on the field,” Cele said.
“In moments like this (Fifa break), the best way to show we care is by putting in the work and effort during the game, not just speaking about it.
“We’ve had time to reflect, and now we need to show that we are ready to fight.”
The Naturena-based outfit are currently eighth on the Premiership standings, and with a glimmer of hope to qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup.
Thabo Cele is in a class of his own. He is the level,pity most of these guys don’t wanna elevate to that same level
— MoFlava (@moflavadj) March 12, 2025
The break allowed the team to take a step back and assess their recent performances.
Cele, who joined Chiefs in January, feels the team are now focused on the next challenge.
“After reflecting and thinking deeply about our situation (the inconsistency), I feel good about what we’ve been working on. We’re aiming to bring new elements to our game,” he said.
Despite Chiefs’ inconsistent results, Cele is adamant that the fans’ support is still crucial.
“We need them now more than ever. Their support on match days makes a difference, and we can’t afford to lose it,” he said.
“But it’s not about what we say; it’s about showing them on the field that we’re giving our all.”
Since joining from Russian club Fakel Voronezh, Cele has quickly become one of the team’s most dependable players.
A native of KwaMashu, he has shown his quality in midfield, even though the team have struggled with results.
Thabo Cele is a different elite midfielder.
He was in the mood against the best players in the league and showed his class.
Hugo Broos was in the stands 😀#PSsport #BetwayPrem pic.twitter.com/otCuoyLCgP
— Prince Sobayeni Sports🇿🇦 (@PrinceSobayeni1) March 2, 2025
“It’s always been my dream to play for Kaizer Chiefs, and now that I’m here, I want to help the team reach our objectives,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the match against Abafana Bes’thende, Cele is aware of the challenge the team face.
Arrows have already beaten Chiefs this season, and are now led by coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who employs a more possession-based style.
“Arrows are always a tough team to play against. With their new coach, they’ll be even more competitive, but we’re ready to face them,” Cele said.
As the season heads into its final stretch, Cele believes there’s no time for talk – only action.
This current group of Chiefs players can also cement their legacies in the club’s history books by breaking the trophy drought, with the Nedbank Cup still a possibility.
