Kaizer Chiefs left-back Nkanyiso Shinga has suffered a major setback after his first appearance for the club, following a lengthy eight-month wait for his debut.
The KwaZulu-Natal–born defender was handed his first start in Amakhosi colours during their Betway Premiership clash against Richards Bay FC on Tuesday. However, the evening proved difficult for the Soweto giants, who were beaten 1-0, which saw them lose ground in the title race.
Shinga, who spent seven years playing in Portugal, endured an even more unfortunate turn of events late in the match. The 25-year-old went down unchallenged, and the medical staff immediately signalled for a stretcher.
Early evaluations reportedly indicate that Shinga may have a torn Achilles tendon.
“I haven’t spoken to the medical staff. We are going to assess him and see the extent of the injury,” co-coach Cedric Kaze said after the game.
If confirmed, the injury would likely rule the defender out for the rest of the campaign. Achilles tendon injuries typically require between four and six months of recovery. Chiefs will play their final game of the season at home against Chippa United on 23 May.
The setback means Shinga’s first season at Chiefs could end with just a single appearance to his name unless he makes an unexpected recovery before the season concludes.
CHIEFS’ INJURY WOES CONTINUE
With Shinga, the latest player sidelined by injury, the Amakhosi technical team will be hoping more players will recover within the next 10 days. Club captain Brandon Petersen, who has performed outstandingly this season, has missed the last two games following successful surgery.
Inacio Miguel, Given Msimango, and Etiosa Ighodaro are all dealing with injuries. Rushwin Dortley has been out since last season.
However, the Glamour Boys must shift their focus to their next Betway Premiership assignment. They play host to Durban City in their upcoming match on Sunday, 15 March. Following their stumble in KZN, winning three points at home is a must if the club wants to secure a place in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
RELATED STORY: Kaze explains eight-month wait for Nkanyiso Shinga’s bitter-sweet Chiefs debut