Injury crisis deepens for Kaizer Chiefs ahead of Chippa clash

Kaizer Chiefs face an anxious wait on Gaston Sirino and Bradley Cross as they return to domestic action, aiming to close the gap on Betway Premiership leaders.

The Soweto giants’ medical team is working against the clock to assess key duo Sirino and Cross ahead of Wednesday’s Betway Premiership encounter against Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Kickoff is set for 19:30.

The Soweto giants enter their penultimate match of 2025 seeking to intensify their title challenge. Currently positioned fourth—six points adrift of leaders Orlando Pirates with a game in hand—Amakhosi can ill afford to drop points in Gqeberha.

However, their preparations have been severely hampered by fresh injury concerns stemming from last Saturday’s gruelling 1-1 CAF Confederation Cup draw against Zamalek.

The Kaizer Chiefs Medical Report

Both Sirino and Cross were forced off prematurely during the first half of the Zamalek clash, lasting less than 20 minutes before requiring substitution.

“Chiefs’ technical team will work closely with the medical staff to assess the extent of injuries to Gaston Sirino and Bradley Cross,” the club confirmed in a statement, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

These new setbacks add to an already extensive casualty list for coach Nasreddine Nabi, which currently includes: Glody Lilepo, Aden McCarthy, Rushwin Dortley and Fiacre Ntwari

Context and Stakes

The timing of the crisis is particularly tricky. While Chippa United currently languishes at the foot of the table, their desperation for points to avoid relegation makes them dangerous opponents on home soil. Furthermore, this is Chiefs’ first PSL fixture since their 4-1 victory over Orbit College on November 4, following a demanding winless spell in continental competition.

In the midst of the injury gloom, the form of right-back Dillan Solomons has been a significant bright spot. Solomons has been instrumental in recent games, finding the net against Al Masry and heavily influencing the draw against Zamalek.

Speaking ahead of the Chippa match, Solomons emphasized the need to refocus on domestic duties despite the short turnaround time.

“We want to refocus on the league,” Solomons said. “We know what type of team Chippa is… but our intention is to pick up maximum points. Because of the short turnaround between games… sticking to our own processes will be crucial.”

Reflecting on the recent continental challenges, Solomons added: “The CAF games have been a learning experience… Personally, it has been a good few months for me. I really want to contribute even more, hopefully in the next two games before the break for the AFCON tournament.”