Kaizer Chiefs have effectively been deposed as champions after their midweek loss to Platinum Stars, but coach Steve Komphela insisted he had to keep believing they could retain their crown to ensure positive energy within the club.

The defending champions' hopes were handed a massive setback after the 2-0 loss at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace and they remain in third place, 13 points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with eight rounds of league games to play.

"Yes, we've complicated things and Sundowns are not giving away points at the moment. They are in a rich vein of form, they could get three chances and score twice. That's how they are flying at the moment. Now that makes matters even worse," said Komphela.

"I'm not giving in. I'm not a quitter ... but I acknowledge the fact that it's becoming more difficult."

The league setback followed on the heels of last weekend's Nedbank Cup exit, leaving Chiefs facing a season without silverware.

"If you look at (the season) as a whole, it does give a bad reflection, so we are looking for some inspiration. The only thing we can do is to focus the players on the next match," he said.

Chiefs could achieve a measure of redemption by qualifying for the group phase of the African Champions League - something they never achieved before.

"The Champions League is fairly open and is there for the taking. But it won't be easy."