
Kaizer Chiefs players. Photo credit: Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Cedric Kaze delivered a worrying update this Friday, confirming a major injury headache just as the club braces for its do-or-die CAF Confederation Cup second-leg clash against AS Simba.
With a goalless draw in Lubumbashi, Amakhosi must win this Saturday at Dobsonville Stadium (3:00 PM kick-off) to advance, but they may have to do it without some vital cogs.
The worst news confirms that striker Khanyisa Mayo is officially out of the weekend battle. Mayo, a crucial attacking option, picked up a hamstring injury during the midweek draw against Siwelele FC. His absence is a huge blow as Chiefs desperately seek the goal they need to clinch a spot in the group stage.
The defence also faces potential issues. There is massive concern over the availability of key figure Inacio Miguel. The defender was injured in the same midweek fixture and will undergo a late fitness test that will determine his involvement just hours before kick-off.
“The thing that we are sure of until now is that Mayo is out for this game after suffering a hamstring injury in our last game,” Kaze confirmed. “We still need to manage and make some additional tests for Miguel… we will assess him today and tomorrow to see if he can feature.”
Adding to the woes, defender Paseka Mako remains unavailable for selection as he continues his recovery.
It’s not all doom and gloom for the Naturena faithful. The biggest ray of hope comes from the return of Given Msimango. The central defender is back training with the squad after a massive six-month layoff! While he’s likely not match-fit for Saturday, his presence is a major boost.
Furthermore, midfielder Flavio Da Silva has been training for ten days and is officially declared “good to go,” giving Kaze another much-needed option in the centre of the park as Chiefs fight to keep their continental dream alive.