small force; small number of people
Refers to a small group of people, often in a military or competitive context, but also used generally for any small contingent.
It's reckless to confront a large army with a small force.
Though they were few in number, they fought well.
Compound of 小 (small) and 勢 (force, energy, group). The reading こぜい is a standard on'yomi combination.