Chiefs debut looms: Kaze gives Ighodaro update

Kaizer Chiefs second assistant coach Cedric Kaze has offered a highly anticipated injury update and projected timeline for the long-awaited debut of Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro.

The centre-forward, who arrived at Naturena from Mamelodi Sundowns in the recently closed transfer window, is yet to feature for the Glamour Boys in the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. Ighodaro’s introduction has been delayed by a perfect storm of pre-season complications—reportedly stemming from a transfer dispute with the rival Brazilians—and a subsequent training injury.

However, following Chiefs’ hard-fought progression in the CAF Confederation Cup, Kaze confirmed that the wait for the former AmaZulu loanee (who netted six goals in 27 appearances last season) is nearing its end.

Kaze indicated that the club’s medical team expects Ighodaro to be available for selection immediately following the upcoming October FIFA international break.

“Ighodaro has been injured, but the medical department promised us [that he will return from the setback soon],” Kaze said after Chiefs secured a 5-4 penalty shootout win over Angola’s Kabuscorp SCP on Saturday. “He has been training with the group without contact. We’re hoping that after the FIFA break, he will be ready to go.”

CAF Registration Headaches For Chiefs

The coach also clarified that even when fit, Ighodaro—alongside fellow new signings Khanyisa Mayo and Lebohang Maboe—will not feature in the next CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round due to registration constraints. Their involvement is slated to begin only in the group stage, should Chiefs qualify.

Chiefs now shift focus back to domestic matters, looking to snap a two-match winless streak in the league when they host AmaZulu FC on Wednesday, 01 October, at FNB Stadium.