Kaizer Chiefs are facing a growing injury headache, with two important attacking players now dealing with fitness concerns.
Lebohang Maboe was forced off during Chiefs’ goalless draw with Golden Arrows, while young striker Wandile Duba is expected to spend time on the sidelines with a hip and groin problem.
The timing is particularly significant for Chiefs, who have struggled to turn possession and chances into consistent results during the opening stages of the Betway Premiership campaign.
Maboe injury adds to Chiefs’ concerns
Maboe has quickly become an important part of the Chiefs attack since arriving at Naturena.
The 32-year-old playmaker has contributed two goals and two assists in seven league appearances this season.
However, he was unable to finish the 0-0 draw against Golden Arrows after picking up an injury in the second half.
The full extent of Maboe’s injury has not been confirmed, meaning Chiefs will have to wait for further medical assessment before knowing how long he could be unavailable.
His absence has also affected the national-team picture, with Maboe withdrawing from the latest Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming matches against Guinea and Eritrea.
How long will Wandile Duba be out?
Chiefs are already set to be without Duba for a period after the 22-year-old suffered a hip and groin injury.
Duba is expected to miss up to two weeks, according to the injury update, although his recovery will ultimately determine when he can return to competitive action.
His absence could be significant given his early-season contribution.
The young striker has scored three goals in just four league appearances, making him one of Chiefs’ most productive attacking players so far this campaign.
More injury problems at Naturena
Chiefs’ injury list extends beyond Maboe and Duba.
Goalkeeper Brandon Petersen is expected to miss up to six weeks after suffering a knee injury in training.
Thabiso Monyane is also unavailable, adding further pressure to coach Nasreddine Nabi’s squad.
The injuries come at a difficult time for Chiefs, who have drawn four of their seven league matches and failed to win four of their last five.
With key attacking options unavailable, Chiefs will need other members of the squad to step up while the injured players work their way back to fitness.
Chiefs face selection challenge
The immediate question is whether Chiefs can maintain their attacking threat without Duba and potentially Maboe.
Duba’s goals have been particularly valuable, while Maboe’s creativity has added another dimension to the team’s attacking play.
Until the extent of Maboe’s injury is confirmed, Chiefs supporters will be left waiting for clarity on one of the club’s latest fitness concerns.
Can Kaizer Chiefs cope without Maboe and Duba over the next few matches? Have your say.
