Kaizer Chiefs return from the international break needing to fix a worrying run of form. Next up is Stellenbosch, a side that has beaten them in their last three meetings across all competitions. The Tuesday, 13 October clash at 19:30 is at home.
Reality Check 1: The Form Has Been Indifferent
Before the break, Chiefs drew four of their last five matches. The only win in that run was a 3-2 success over Siwelele. They now trail newly crowned MTN8 champions Mamelodi Sundowns by seven points, which leaves little room for slip-ups if they want to stay in the title race through to Christmas.
Reality Check 2: A Long Injury List
Chiefs are dealing with a lengthy list of absentees, though several players are close to returning:
- Flavio Silva: Back in training.
- Khanyisa Mayo: Recovered after a hernia operation and training again.
- Langelihle Phili: The 21-year-old winger is nearing a return after a serious ankle injury suffered in training in late August. He could be involved against Stellenbosch.
- Lebohang Maboe: His fitness is a concern.
- Luke Baartman: A major doubt after returning from South Africa U23 duty with a thigh injury.
Reality Check 3: The Stellies Hoodoo
Stellenbosch have won each of the last three meetings between the sides. Ex-Stellies defender Thabo Moloisane now lines up for Chiefs, which adds a little extra edge to the fixture.
Reality Check 4: Youth May Be the Answer
There is some encouragement from the academy. Eighteen-year-old Steven Mendes won the Golden Boot at the recent COSAFA U20 tournament in Maputo after being moved from midfield to striker. Nicknamed “Stevie G” by some teammates, he could feature for the senior side sooner rather than later.
Your Say
Can Chiefs end the Stellies jinx and get back to winning ways? Tell us in the comments.
