Kaizer Chiefs’ pre-season preparations in Europe have hit an unexpected hurdle. Left-back Paseka Mako has been forced to cut his tour short and fly back to South Africa after suffering a serious arm injury during a friendly match in Spain.
The setback comes at a crucial time as head coach Fernando Da Cruz fine-tunes his squad ahead of the highly anticipated 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.
Injury Occurs in Al Khalood Stalemate
Amakhosi have been testing their mettle against international opposition, securing 1-1 draws against Scottish giants Rangers FC and Saudi Arabian side Al Khalood. However, Tuesday’s clash against Al Khalood proved costly.
Mako fractured his forearm during the match, prompting the technical team and medical staff to immediately send him back home for advanced medical attention.
Official Club Statement on Mako’s Recovery
In an official update, Kaizer Chiefs confirmed the injury and outlined the next steps for the experienced wing-back:
“Kaizer Chiefs’ pre-season preparations in Spain, led by coach Fernando Da Cruz, are progressing well as the team gears up for the new campaign. However, defender Paseka Mako has suffered a setback after fracturing his forearm during Tuesday’s friendly match against Al Khalood.”
“Mako has returned to South Africa for medical care and will consult a specialist orthopaedic surgeon for further assessment. He is expected to rejoin his teammates in the coming weeks once his recovery is underway.”
Who Fills the Left-Back Void?
While Mako begins his rehabilitation in Johannesburg, the rest of the Glamour Boys remain in Spain to wrap up their training camp.
Mako’s sudden departure heavily tests the depth of Da Cruz’s defensive structures. The club’s remaining options at left-back include:
- Bradley Cross: The newly returned World Cup star who is now heavily tipped to start the season opener.
- Kabelo Nkgwesa: Currently under assessment by the technical team.
- Nkanyiso Shinga: Rumored to be on his way out of Naturena.
- Ofentse Kgosana: The highly-rated youth prospect currently with the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team.
Amakhosi fans will be sweating on Mako’s swift recovery, hoping the dependable defender can return to full fitness before the domestic curtain-raiser.
