Chiefs get major boost: Star attacker fit for Durban City trip

Kaizer Chiefs fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief! The Glamour Boys have received a massive shot in the arm ahead of their crucial Betway Premiership clash against Durban City FC this Friday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Star international striker Glody Lilepo has made the trip to eThekwini and is available for selection for the game set to start at 19:30 [SA time] this evening.

The 28-year-old Democratic Republic of Congo forward had an injury scare last Sunday during the CAF Confederation Cup match against AS Simba, where he was substituted at halftime.

Lilepo was seen limping with a strapped ankle, sparking serious concern among the Amakhosi faithful, especially with fellow forward Khanyisa Mayo already sidelined. Co-coach Cedric Kaze had initially tried to downplay the severity, calling it “a knock,” but the fear of a serious layoff persisted.

Why Lilepo’s Return is Critical For Kaizer Chiefs

Lilepo’s presence in the travelling squad is a huge relief as Chiefs desperately seek to snap a poor run of form.

The Soweto giants are currently enduring a four-match winless streak in the PSL. They sit fourth on the table, five points adrift of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns (though Kaizer Chiefs have a game in hand).

They face Durban City, who are right behind them with just one point less, making this a pivotal six-pointer.

The 3-1 victory over AS Simba in the CAF Confederation Cup broke a three-game drought without a goal across all competitions, providing a much-needed lift. Midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala sees that momentum as key to turning their league form around.

Meanwhile, Mduduzi Shabalala echoed the sentiment of renewed belief, stressing the importance of converting chances.

“It was a great confidence booster for us to score three goals, and we will take that into the match against Durban City,” Shabalala stated.

“For us, it is very important to get a good result in this match. We have been playing well, but haven’t converted our chances as we would want to. This is a good opportunity for us, as Kaizer Chiefs, to get back on track for a good season in the league. We just need to stick with what we are doing and turn the chance we create into goals.”

With their leading striker back and confidence bubbling after the continental win, Chiefs will be hoping Lilepo’s return provides the clinical edge needed to secure a vital three points in Durban.