{
  "id": 8429118,
  "title": "Johnson rules Kaizer Chiefs out of league title race",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/19/johnson-rules-kaizer-chiefs-out-of-league-title-race",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-19T09:24:09.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/local-soccer/johnson-rules-kaizer-chiefs-out-of-league-title-race/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Former Kaizer Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson has dismissed his former club's chances of challenging for the Betway Premiership title, stating that the team is effectively out of the race. The team, who have yet to concede a defeat in league play, currently sit fourth in the standings with 12 points after six matches. They trail league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by eight points, but have a two-game advantage due to Sundowns' match against Maritzburg United being postponed.\n\nJohnson attributes Chiefs' difficulties to a variety of factors, including their frequent changes to the lineup, which he says is a challenge for new manager Fernando da Cruz. Da Cruz, who previously managed in Morocco, is still adjusting to the unique aspects of South African football, including the diverse playing styles and cultural differences among the teams. Johnson notes that Chiefs have had scoring opportunities in recent matches, but their progress has been hindered by costly mistakes in various areas of the game.\n\nDespite this, Johnson acknowledges that Chiefs remain a consistent presence at the start of the season, with AmaZulu, who have started the season well, being another strong contender. However, he firmly believes that the race for the title will ultimately come down to a battle between Sundowns and Pirates, describing the scenario as a \"two-horse race\".",
  "summary": "When you look at it now, it's a two-horse race. I think it's six games now. It's Sundowns and Pirates,\" said Johnson.",
  "key_points": [
    "Former Chiefs coach Cavin Johnson rules Chiefs out of title race.",
    "Chiefs fourth in standings with 12 points after six matches.",
    "Johnson attributes struggles to lineup changes and new manager's adjustment."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}