As Kaizer Chiefs finalised their preparations for Sunday’s match against Young Africans, here are six key observations from their training session.
RUSHWIN DORTLEY JOINS UP WITH NEW TEAMMATES
New signing Rushwin Dortley, recently acquired from Cape Town Spurs, participated in training. However, a starting position seems unlikely due to his limited time with the team. The 22-year-old imposing physique commands attention on the training pitch.
HAPPY MASHIANE’S ABSENCE
Happy Mashiane was noticeably absent due to a family commitment. This creates a challenge for coach Nasreddine Nabi, as both Edmilson Dove and Bongani Sam, other left-back options, are currently injured.
NKOSANA MBUTHU AS A POTENTIAL SOLUTION
In light of Mashiane’s absence and the other injuries, academy graduate Nkosana Mbuthu may be deployed as a left-back. Though primarily a midfielder, Mbuthu has demonstrated the versatility to fill this role.
FIACRE NTWARI UNCERTAIN STARTING POSITION
Coach Nabi hinted that goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari might not be in the starting lineup against Yanga, despite training with the squad. Like Dortley, the 24-year-old goalkeeper only joined his new teammates upon their return from preseason.
NKOSINGIPHILE NGCOBO TRANSFORMATION
Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, affectionately known as ‘Mshini’, appeared leaner and fitter compared to last season. This positive change likely stems from a productive preseason.
WHICH PLAYERS MISSED KAIZER CHIEFS’ TRAINING SESSION
Players who remained behind due to injuries when Chiefs travelled to Turkey earlier this month – George Matlou, Tebogo Potsane, Dillan Solomons, and Mduduzi Mdantsane – were still unavailable. Edmilson Dove and Bongani Sam, who sustained injuries during preseason, were also absent.
Meanwhile, Chiefs face Yanga in the inaugural Toyota Cup at the Free State Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Kick-off is 3PM. Amakhosi have announced that the match is sold out.
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