Kaizer Chiefs have the opportunity to extend their unbeaten start to the Betway Premiership season when they travel to face Polokwane City on Saturday.
Fernando Da Cruz appears unlikely to make major changes to the side that has served him well so far, with the Chiefs coach expected to stick with his 3-4-3 formation.
The biggest selection questions could revolve around the attacking positions and the fitness of Khanyisa Mayo.
Da Cruz expected to keep faith with 3-4-3
Da Cruz has shown a willingness to trust his preferred tactical system, with Pule Mmodi operating as a left wing-back in the setup.
In attack, the exciting young trio of Wandile Duba, Mfundo Vilakazi and Mdu Shabalala are expected to retain their places.
Behind them, Lebohang Maboe has emerged as an influential midfield playmaker.
The experienced 31-year-old already has one goal and two assists in the league, while Siphesihle Ndlovu provides energy in midfield and has also shown an ability to contribute creatively in the final third.
Predicted Kaizer Chiefs XI
Petersen; Kwinika, Miguel, Moloisane; Solomons, Ndlovu, Maboe, Mmodi; Vilakazi, Duba, Shabalala.
It would represent another opportunity for Chiefs’ young attackers to make their mark while Da Cruz continues to build consistency around his tactical approach.
Chiefs chasing another unbeaten result
The Glamour Boys have made an encouraging start under Da Cruz, remaining unbeaten after five Betway Premiership matches.
Their latest outing ended in a thrilling 3-2 victory over Siwelele, with Mfundo Vilakazi and Wandile Duba finding the net.
Maboe and Shabalala supplied the assists for those goals as Chiefs continued their positive run.
Their next opponents, Polokwane City, have endured a more difficult opening to the campaign.
Polokwane have recorded one win, three draws and one defeat, leaving Chiefs with a chance to maintain their momentum.
Mayo remains a selection question
One of the biggest talking points ahead of the match is Khanyisa Mayo.
The striker was back in training ahead of Chiefs’ victory over Siwelele but was ultimately not included in the matchday squad.
That could indicate that Mayo is still building towards full match fitness after his absence, although his return to training is an encouraging sign.
For now, Da Cruz may continue with the attacking combination that has delivered results.
Two injury absentees
Chiefs will also have to cope without Thabiso Monyane and Langelihle Phili, who are both expected to miss the trip.
Their absences reduce Da Cruz’s options, making squad depth particularly important as Chiefs attempt to maintain their unbeaten record.
When is Polokwane City vs Kaizer Chiefs?
Polokwane City host Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 12 September, with kick-off at 15:00.
For Chiefs, the objective is straightforward: continue the unbeaten run and build further momentum under Da Cruz.
But will the Glamour Boys’ current formula be enough to secure another three points?
Chiefs fans, is this the XI you would start against Polokwane City?
