Kaze issues crucial injury update as Chiefs prepare for Pirates clash

The Soweto Derby is looming, and for Kaizer Chiefs, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Heading into Saturday’s massive Betway Premiership showdown at FNB Stadium, co-coach Cedric Kaze has broken his silence on the fitness concerns currently plaguing the Amakhosi camp.

Both giants enter this fixture “wounded.” Chiefs are looking to bounce back from a gruelling week that saw them exit the CAF Confederation Cup in Egypt after a 2-1 loss to Zamalek, followed immediately by a disappointing 2-1 domestic defeat to Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday.

Their rivals, Orlando Pirates, are in a similar funk. The Buccaneers recently surrendered the top spot in the league to Mamelodi Sundowns and suffered a shock Nedbank Cup exit at the hands of Casric Stars.

The Chiefs Medical Room: Who’s In and Who’s Out?

With fans anxious to know if their stars will be ready for the biggest game of the season, Kaze provided a detailed breakdown of the squad’s availability:

Inacio Miguel: The defender is the biggest “maybe.” After missing recent outings due to an injury sustained against Stellenbosch in the Nedbank Cup, Miguel has returned to “light training.” A final decision will be made after a late fitness test today.

Sibongiseni ‘Ox’ Mthethwa: While Mthethwa has completed five full sessions with the team, Kaze warned that he is not yet 100% fit, though he remains an option for the bench.

Thabo Cele & Bradley Cross: In a major boost for the backline and midfield, both players have been cleared and are available for selection.

The Absentees: It’s bad news for the attack; Etiosa Ighodaro remains sidelined and has not yet rejoined group training. George Matlou is also confirmed out for the clash.

“It is true that Miguel has missed a couple of games following his injury in the Nedbank Cup game against Stellenbosch FC. He’s had two lighter training sessions with the group, and he will be assessed today to see if he’s able to feature,” said Kaze.

“Ox has been training with the team for the last five sessions. He can help, but he’s not 100% fit. Ighoadora is definitely out; he hasn’t joined the group yet.

“Thabo Cele is back from his injury; he can help… George Matlou is out.”

A Battle for Pride and Points

Currently sitting in 4th place, Kaizer Chiefs are desperate to close the gap on the top three. A win on Saturday wouldn’t just provide three points; it would serve as the ultimate redemption after a difficult fortnight on the road and at home.

For Pirates, the mission is simple: reclaim the momentum in the title race. For Chiefs, it’s about proving that the “wounded lion” is at its most dangerous during Derby weekend.