Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze has provided a detailed update on six key players ruled out of the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup group stage clash against Zesco United on Sunday. The Soweto giants will host the Zambian team in a crucial Group D encounter at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
Following a gritty 1-0 victory over Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein earlier in the week, secured by a spectacular goal from Glody Lilepo, Chiefs aim to strengthen their position at the top of the group.
After defeating Zesco 1-0 in Ndola thanks to a Pule Mmodi strike, they currently sit third in Group D. A victory in this fixture would significantly boost their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages.
However, squad depth is under strain, with several players sidelined due to injuries.
WHICH SIX PLAYERS ARE RULED OUT?
“George [Matlou] returned to full training yesterday, but he hasn’t been with the squad for the past four weeks, which rules him out of tomorrow’s game,” Kaze told journalists. “[Thabo] Cele is still out, [Bradley] Cross is still out, and Ox [Sibongiseni Mthethwa] is out. Reeve [Frosler] went for surgery and will be out for quite some time. Fiacre [Ntwari] is not back yet, but he’ll resume training within a week, as he’s now walking on the side.”
“[Rushwin] Dortley has a long-term injury, but his condition has improved a lot cause there were some complications around November, which have been corrected.
“We hope that in the next two weeks, he will test if he’s going to be allowed to start training. We are hopeful he’ll pass that test.”
However, it wasn’t all doom and gloom, as two key players are expected to be available for the must-win clash. “We’re happy [Gaston] Sirino is back, Lilepo is back. Experience will add more quality.”
After the CAF assignment, Chiefs shift their focus to the Nedbank Cup, where they travel to Cape Town to face Stellenbosch FC. They take on Stellies on Wednesday. Thereafter, they welcome Al Masry to Polokwane on Sunday.
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