Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela says he still believes in Amakhosi winger Glody Lilepo, backing the Congolese star to rediscover his confidence and form.
Lilepo might be under pressure, but he hasn’t lost all his supporters. One of them, a respected Amakhosi legend, is standing firmly in his corner.
The 28-year-old Congolese international was left out of the matchday squad for the first time this season as Chiefs cruised past Orbit College FC 4-1 in the Betway Premiership at FNB Stadium last month.
Before that, Lilepo had featured in all 14 of Chiefs’ matches across competitions this campaign, scoring three goals. Last season, he finished as the club’s top scorer with six goals in just 15 games despite joining in January from French side Valenciennes FC.
Unfortunately, his start to the new season has drawn criticism for missed chances, decision-making, and technical quality in combining with teammates. But former Chiefs left-back Masilela believes the winger’s struggles are temporary.
MASILELA BACKS STRUGGLING LILEPO TO REDISCOVER CHIEFS FORM
“You know what I like about Lilepo? He consistently gets into those dangerous positions,” Masilela said on Soccer Beat. “He gets so many chances and takes so many shots, and we’re talking about a winger here.
“If he converts half of those chances, we’re telling a different story. Not many wingers get into those positions. When he takes those chances, we win games.”
“Unlike wingers who play back passes all the time, Lilepo is positive. He affects the game. He also has aerial strength, he’s tall, can jump, and gives you that extra edge from set pieces,” Masilela added.
Despite a recent dip in form—highlighted by his missed penalty against AmaZulu FC in October and a glaring opportunity squandered against TS Galaxy in Sunday’s final game of 2025—Lilepo’s confidence has been dented, yet Masilela remains firmly optimistic.
“Maybe his confidence dropped a little after that miss, but I still believe in him. He’ll bounce back and start scoring again,” Masilela added.
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