Matlou overcome with emotion after first full game in nine months

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder George Matlou shed tears after being crowned Man of the Match following his first full game since returning from a long-term knee injury that sidelined him for nine months.

Since his return from injury, the 26-year-old has made four appearances across all competitions for the Nasreddine Nabi-coached side.

Matlou made his first start in last week’s 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United but was substituted during the second half of that match.

On Sunday, acting head coach Khalil Ben Youssef gave him his first complete game in the 4-0 win over Free Agents in their Nedbank Cup Last 32 encounter. Matlou delivered a standout man-of-the-match performance.

A brace by Pule Mmodi, along with goals from Inacio Miguel and Ranga Chivaviro, secured the Soweto giants a place in the Nedbank Cup Round of 16. Matlou provided an assist in the game.

In the post-match interview, the talented midfielder was visibly emotional and explained the reasons behind his tears after receiving the Man of the Match award.

WHY GEORGE MATLOU BROKE DOWN IN TEARS?

He said he was emotional because recovering from the injury was difficult, and being off the field for nine months was challenging.

“It’s emotional for me. It has been a hard journey, it’s not easy to be out of football for nine months,” Matlou told SuperSport TV.

“I’m grateful to my medical team and the coach for believing in me.”

After his impressive performances in recent matches, Matlou is expected to maintain his excellent form and improve Nabi’s midfield.

Chiefs’ next league clash is the Soweto Derby against their arch-rivals, Orlando Pirates, in a highly anticipated Betway Premiership match on Saturday, 1 February.

The derby will take place at the FNB Stadium, with the kick-off set for 15:00.

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