Kaizer Chiefs have been hit by a backline setback as they travelled to Egypt for Saturday’s decisive CAF Confederation Cup Group D clash with Zamalek SC.
The Soweto giants will be up against the White Knights at Suez Canal Authority Stadium. It is a huge test of character for Chiefs, with attention on them to see if they can hold on to their lead in the group.
They are two points clear of second-placed Zamalek and need just a point to sail through to the quarter-finals without minding about what happens in the other match between Al Masry and Zesco United.
A defeat for Chiefs and a three-goal margin win for Al Masry over Zesco would doom the Soweto giants. However, Amakhosi arrived in Ismailia spurred by a three-match winning streak in the Confederation Cup.
KEY CHIEFS DEFENDERS OUT OF ZAMALEK TIE
They arrived in Egypt without utility defender Aden McCarthy, who is suspended after picking up his third yellow card against Al Masry last weekend. The left-back-cum central defender has been suspended at a time when Chiefs have another left-sided defender, Bradley Cross, out injured.
Paseka Mako is likely to start at left-back with expectations on him to bring continental experience from his days in the CAF Champions League with Orlando Pirates. He will have Nkanyiso Shinga as an understudy.
Also, not making Chiefs’ trip to North Africa is injured centre-back Inacio Miguel, leaving Amakhosi coaches with Zitha Kinika and Given Msimango as the only natural options at the heart of defence. Already, Chiefs have central defender Rushwin Dortley out nursing a long-term injury.
The squad that travelled to face Zamalek has familiar faces, but rising goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba has been surprisingly included as Fiacre Ntwari works his way to full fitness.
CHIEFS’ SQUAD IN EGYPT
Goalkeepers: Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma, Takalani Mazhamba
Defenders: Dillan Solomons, Zitha Kwinika, Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Given Msimango, Nkanyiso Shinga
Midfielders: Siphesihle Ndlovu, Lebohang Maboe, Thulani Mabaso, George Matlou, Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi, Gaston Sirino
Attackers: Glody Lilepo, Pule Mmodi, Asanele Velebayi, Wandile Duba, Ashley du Preez, Khanyisa Mayo, Flavio da Silva.
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