Kaizer Chiefs: After Mamelodi Sundowns free hit, Zwane's future hangs on these five games

The thing with the Sundowns clash is that nobody really expected Chiefs to get a positive result, such is the fantastic form of the Brazilians, who have chalked up 13 league wins in a row.

So that was in effect a 'free hit' for Zwane and his side, and if they were going to lose, 1-0 was the way to do it.

But now looking ahead, Amakhosi find themselves with four games which they would be expected to win, against some of the 'smaller' teams.

And after that, they face Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates.

Some more poor results ahead of and in the derby, and Zwane could find himself in a precarious situation. Here's what's ahead for Amakhosi:

Royal AM haven't been doing to well of late. However, the Durban side are Amakhosi's bogey team - they have beaten Chiefs on all three occasions they've clashed in the league, including a 4-1 hiding.

Yet another bogey side for Amakhosi, Galaxy have won two and drawn two of their last four fixtures with Chiefs. At home they'll be tough to play as they look to try and climb away from the relegation zone. Galaxy previously beat the Glamour Boys in the Nedbank Cup final - while still a first division club.

Speaking of the Nedbank Cup, Chiefs face the Team of Choice in the Round of 32 this season. It's Amakhosi's only hope at silverware this term and against a side in inspired form since the return of Fadlu Davids, this will be a very tough game away at the Harry Gwala Stadium.

Arrows have won two of their last three matches against the Glamour Boys. Currently sliding down the standings, the KZN side will be fired up to beat Amakhosi.

Just in case the stakes could not get any higher for Zwane, he leads his side out into battle against the old rivals in less than one month's time. A few bad results before the derby and a loss to Pirates could put the coach's job on the line.