Lebohang Maboe headlines a list of five Kaizer Chiefs players walking on a suspension tightrope ahead of facing Mamelodi Sundowns in a match that could be significant in the Betway Premiership title race.
The Brazilians are chasing log leaders Orlando Pirates in the bid to be crowned champions for the ninth straight season. Currently second on the table, Sundowns have a point fewer than the Buccaneers but have played a game less.
It is an intriguing title race, as Masandawana have five games to go before they complete their campaign, while Pirates have four. The Tshwane giants’ remaining fixtures include a home fixture against Chiefs on May 6.
It is a tie that could have a huge bearing on where the league title will land. But before Chiefs visit Sundowns, they face Siwelele FC at Toyota Stadium on Wednesday.
WHO ARE THE CHIEFS PLAYERS IN DANGER OF MISSING THE SUNDOWNS’ SHOWDOWN?
The Siwelele match could leave Chiefs depleted ahead of the Sundowns encounter. Amakhosi arrive in Bloemfontein with five players, each sitting on three yellow cards. They are one booking away from missing the Masandawana game, which is also important for Chiefs’ quest to secure a top-three finish.
If selected to play on Wednesday, striker Flavio da Silva will be playing with caution as he is on three yellow cards.
Maboe has been impressive in recent games and would want to be available to face his former club, Sundowns. That is subject to him not being yellow-carded against Siwelele. Other Amakhosi stars going into the Siwelele encounter walking on eggshells are Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Mfundo Vilakazi and Siphesihle Ndlovu.
SIWELELE MATCH SENTIMENTAL FOR MCCARTHY
For Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy, there is a lot to cherish about visiting the City of Roses, where his father, Fabian, was once based while turning out for Bloemfontein Celtic.
“Going to Bloemfontein to play against Siwelele, I have recovered and am ready for the game. Playing in Bloemfontein is not extra special, but it has lots of sentiments for me because my father started playing there,” said McCarthy.
“So, I’m looking forward to that, I’m feeling confident, and Siwelele is a good team. They managed to draw against [Orlando] Pirates, and we shouldn’t overlook the individuals they have in the team. It’s going to be a good and tough game.”
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