Kaizer Chiefs' DStv Diski Challenge assistant coach, Dillon Sheppard, is banking on the psychological edge generated through preparation for a pivotal match to galvanise his players in light of a string of disheartening results.

Amakhosi have been but a mere spectre of the formidable squad that secured the DDC title in the previous season. Since the commencement of the 2025/26 season, their performances have been lacklustre, evident in their precarious position on the Diski Challenge table, which starkly contrasts their previous triumphs.

On Saturday, the Chiefs will host Polokwane City at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto. Kick-off is at 10am in the morning.

They approach this fixture with a disheartening record of seven consecutive matches without a victory. They lost twice and drew their recent five encounters, further compounding their woes.

The 2024/24 Diski Champions last experienced a triumphant moment on 14 September, where they defeated Stellenbosch FC 3-2.

Following the clash with Polokwane, Chiefs' subsequent engagement will be against their archrivals from Soweto, Orlando Pirates, who are currently soaring at the pinnacle of the league standings.

Sheppard emphasized the need to establish a strong foundation for the derby and their UK tour, which is scheduled in three weeks.

He stated, "There's no doubt we will bounce back, there's no doubt about that. There's three games left now before the trip. We will focus on our performances the results will be sorted."

After nine league matches of the campaign, Amakhosi are in a disappointing 11th spot with 11 points. Lack of killer instinct has been their Achilles heel as they have scored just 11 goals so far.

Sheppard added, "If you look at the performances, how we played in the last four, five games, we have been dominant. We are working on the final decision-making in the final third. It is something we are working on to do better in the final third and score goals.

"Also our squad, most are writing Grade 12 examinations, they have not gotten enough time to train, there's a lot on their plate at the moment. But that's not an excuse for poor results."

"From a performance perspective, I am happy with it. I know we are being judged on results, but we will get them. As much as we want to win games, but it is also important we focus on player improvement rather than the results. We will get right, smaller details."

Amakhosi's last league match will be against Chippa United on 23 November before jetting off to the UK on 25 November. They are going on a tour in the UK as part of their reward for winning the league title last season.