Kaizer Chiefs are facing a serious selection headache at left-back, with all five players capable of filling the position currently sidelined through injury.
The injury crisis has forced head coach Fernando Da Cruz to improvise, with winger Pule Mmodi deployed in a wing-back role during Chiefs’ recent 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns.
The situation is becoming a major concern for Amakhosi as they prepare for the next phase of their Betway Premiership campaign.
Chiefs’ left-back crisis deepens
Da Cruz confirmed the extent of the problem following the draw with Sundowns, revealing that the club had lost two more players during the week.
“Our left-backs are all injured,” Da Cruz said after the match.
Reeve Frosler had already been used as a makeshift option at left-back, but his latest injury has further reduced Chiefs’ choices.
The five players currently unavailable in the position are:
- Paseko Mako
- Nkanyiso Shinga
- Bradley Cross
- Reeve Frosler
- Kabelo Nkgwesa
With no natural left-back available, Da Cruz has been forced to think outside the box.
Da Cruz finds a solution against Sundowns
Chiefs faced an enormous tactical challenge against the defending champions without a recognised left-back.
Rather than allowing the injury crisis to disrupt his team’s structure, Da Cruz switched to a 3-5-2 formation, with Mmodi operating in a deeper wing-back role.
The tactical adjustment helped Chiefs remain competitive against Sundowns and ultimately secure a valuable 1-1 draw.
New signing Langelihle Phili found the back of the net for Amakhosi, while the result extended Chiefs’ unbeaten Betway Premiership start to three matches.
The Glamour Boys now have seven points from a possible nine.
Chiefs’ encouraging start under Da Cruz
Despite the injury problems and an early MTN8 exit, Da Cruz has made a positive start to his tenure.
Chiefs have played four competitive matches under the French-Portuguese coach, recording:
✅ 2 wins
🤝 1 draw
❌ 1 defeat
They opened the campaign with a 3-1 victory over Kruger United, with Flavio Da Silva scoring early before substitute Wandile Duba struck twice.
Chiefs were then eliminated from the MTN8 by Lamontville Golden Arrows, who recorded a 1-0 quarter-final victory at FNB Stadium.
The Amakhosi responded strongly by beating Sekhukhune United 2-0 before holding Sundowns to a draw.
Richards Bay clash next
Chiefs now have some valuable time to recover and assess their injury situation.
Their next Betway Premiership fixture is scheduled for 26 August, when they travel to KwaZulu-Natal to face Richards Bay.
The extended break could give some injured players additional recovery time, although Da Cruz will be hoping at least one of his left-back options becomes available.
Until then, the coach may need to continue experimenting with his defensive setup.
Can Chiefs maintain their momentum?
The left-back crisis is undoubtedly a concern, but Chiefs have already demonstrated considerable resilience.
Da Cruz’s willingness to change formation and find unconventional solutions could prove crucial during a long season.
With seven points from nine, an unbeaten league record and growing confidence around the squad, Amakhosi have plenty of positives to build on.
The big question now is whether Chiefs can survive their injury crisis without losing momentum.
