Kaizer Chiefs supporters may not have to wait much longer to see new signing Elias Mokwana in action, with the Bafana Bafana winger potentially making his debut later this month.
The 27-year-old attacker could get his first competitive appearance for Amakhosi when they travel to face Chippa United on Saturday, 28 November.
However, coach Fernando Da Cruz is expected to take a careful approach as the club works to get its latest recruit ready for competitive football.
Mokwana Joins Chiefs as a Free Agent
Mokwana recently completed his move to Kaizer Chiefs as a free agent after spending time abroad with Tunisian giants Espérance de Tunis and Saudi Arabian side Al-Hazem.
The former Sekhukhune United winger brings international experience, pace and attacking quality to the Naturena outfit.
His arrival is expected to strengthen Chiefs’ attacking options as they look to improve their performances in the Betway Premiership.
Despite his experience, Mokwana faces the challenge of joining the squad without having completed a proper pre-season programme.
Da Cruz Explains Why Mokwana Will Not Be Rushed
Da Cruz has made it clear that Chiefs will not rush the new signing into the starting line-up.
Speaking ahead of the Carling Knockout quarter-final against Siwelele FC, the coach praised Mokwana’s abilities but admitted that he will need time to adjust to his new surroundings and regain match readiness.
“Elias Mokwana is a very good player, an experienced player with international experience, he has a lot of quality,” Da Cruz said.
“With no pre-season? It will be tough, but during the upcoming FIFA break it will be the time to integrate him into the team, step by step.”
The international break will give the Chiefs technical team an opportunity to work on Mokwana’s fitness, introduce him to the club’s playing philosophy and help him build an understanding with his new teammates.
As a result, he is not expected to feature in Sunday’s Carling Knockout clash against Siwelele.
Could Chippa United Be Mokwana’s First Opponent?
Chiefs are scheduled to return to Betway Premiership action against Chippa United on Saturday, 28 November.
The away fixture could be the occasion when supporters finally get to see Mokwana wearing the famous gold and black jersey in a competitive match.
However, Da Cruz has not confirmed an official debut date. Mokwana will first have to demonstrate that he is physically ready and has adapted sufficiently to the team’s demands.
The winger returns to South African football after two seasons abroad. He previously played for Sekhukhune United before joining Espérance in 2024, followed by a loan spell at Al-Hazem during the 2025/26 season.
Chiefs fans will be hoping the new arrival can make an immediate impact once he is ready to take the field.
Should Fernando Da Cruz give Elias Mokwana his Kaizer Chiefs debut against Chippa United on 28 November? Share your thoughts in the comments.
