Pule Mmodi appeared to be heading towards the fringes at Kaizer Chiefs, but a tactical switch under Fernando Da Cruz has unexpectedly given the experienced attacker another opportunity to prove his worth.
The 33-year-old has found himself back in the starting XI, operating in a role that few would have predicted at the beginning of the season.
Mmodi finds a new route back into the Chiefs team
Da Cruz’s decision to use a three-man defence against Mamelodi Sundowns opened the door for Mmodi to feature as a wing-back.
The tactical gamble paid off as Chiefs secured a 1-1 draw against the reigning champions while restricting Sundowns to limited opportunities.
Chiefs’ defensive organisation was arguably one of the positives from the performance, but the new system also created an unexpected benefit for Mmodi.
With competition for attacking positions becoming increasingly fierce, the former Golden Arrows player now has another avenue into the starting lineup.
Mmodi subsequently retained his place for the 2-2 draw against Richards Bay, suggesting that Da Cruz may have found a role where the veteran can still contribute.
But Mmodi’s comeback could be short-lived
There is one major question hanging over his resurgence: how long can it last?
The injury suffered by Thabiso Monyane could force Da Cruz to rethink his formation and personnel.
If the coach returns to a more conventional setup, Mmodi could once again find himself competing directly with several attacking players for limited positions.
For now, however, the veteran has been handed an unexpected lifeline.
His challenge is to make the opportunity impossible to ignore.
Is Nkosingiphile Ngcobo facing a bigger problem?
While Mmodi’s fortunes appear to be improving, the situation could be moving in the opposite direction for Nkosingiphile Ngcobo.
The attacking midfielder has struggled to produce consistent numbers in recent seasons.
Since scoring more than two goals in a season during the 2020/21 campaign, Ngcobo has failed to reach that mark again. His combined goal tally across the last three Betway Premiership campaigns has reportedly been just two.
The lack of attacking output could place his position under increasing pressure, particularly with Da Cruz continuing to assess his squad.
After years as an important part of the Chiefs setup, the midfielder now faces a battle to remain central to the coach’s plans.
Chiefs still unbeaten in the league
Despite their disappointing MTN8 campaign, Da Cruz has made a respectable start to life in the Betway Premiership.
Chiefs remain unbeaten in the league after drawing against Sundowns and Richards Bay.
However, consecutive draws mean the Amakhosi have missed opportunities to collect maximum points at the top end of the table.
Their next league assignment will be against Siwelele, giving Da Cruz another chance to fine-tune his tactical approach.
For Mmodi, it could also be another opportunity to show that his Chiefs career isn’t finished just yet.
Can Pule Mmodi turn this surprise opportunity into a permanent place in the Chiefs starting XI?
