Speculation is intensifying around Naturena as Kaizer Chiefs prepare for their Betway Premiership clash against Richards Bay at the Princess Magogo Stadium on August 26 (19:30). Following a tactically disciplined performance against Mamelodi Sundowns, head coach Fernando Da Cruz may stick with his new-look 3-5-2 system, while long-serving midfielder Nkosingiphile Ngcobo faces an increasingly uncertain future at the club.
Tactical Shift: Will Da Cruz Persist with 3-5-2?
Chiefs showcased impressive defensive solidity in their 1-1 draw against champions Mamelodi Sundowns, restricting them to an expected goals (xG) figure of just 0.63 and two shots on target.
The setup provided dynamic width through wing-backs Thabiso Monyane and Pule Mmodi, while Siphesihle Ndlovu provided the assist for young attacker Langelihle Phili to get on the scoresheet. With seven points from a possible nine, the Glamour Boys sit atop the early league table and could deploy the same tactical shape against Richards Bay.
Predicted Lineup (3-5-2):
Petersen (GK); Kwinika, Moloisane, Miguel; Monyane, Ndlovu, Mthethwa, Maboe, Mmodi; Phili, Baartman.
Is the Writing on the Wall for Nkosingiphile Ngcobo?
Having spent nine years in the senior side, Nkosingiphile “Mshini” Ngcobo finds himself on the periphery of the squad. The attacking midfielder has struggled for end product in recent years, failing to score more than two goals in a single campaign since the 2020–21 season and managing just two league goals across his last three domestic seasons combined.
After being completely excluded from the matchday squad against Sundowns, rumors suggest his time at Naturena could be drawing to a close. Meanwhile, persistent reports continue to link Chiefs with former Orlando Pirates and Sundowns star Thembinkosi Lorch, though high wage demands and his current contract with Libyan side Al Ittihad Tripoli present significant hurdles to any potential deal.
