Maboe speaks out: The mental toll of watching Chiefs from the sidelines

Kaizer Chiefs central midfielder Lebohang Maboe has addressed the substantial lack of playing time he has endured since re-signing with the Soweto giants at the start of the current season.

Maboe, 31, returned to Naturena this term after concluding his tenure with rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, marking a reunion with the club where he spent his formative years in the youth academy. Despite his pedigree, the player has only accumulated two competitive appearances—one in the Betway Premiership and one in the CAF Confederation Cup—leaving him largely on the periphery of coach’s starting XI.

Speaking ahead of the critical Group C CAF Confederation Cup clash against Egyptian powerhouse Zamalek at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium this Saturday, Maboe adopted a patient and team-focused perspective regarding his situation.

The Optimistic View by Lebo Maboe: Trusting the Process and Personal Ability

Maboe expressed confidence in his assimilation into the Amakhosi setup and remains optimistic that his opportunity will soon materialise.

“I am settling in very well, I know my chance will come,” Maboe stated to the media.

He was quick to commend the players currently holding down spots in the team, acknowledging their strong performances. Crucially, the player affirmed his self-belief in his own capabilities.

“The players who have been playing are doing very well. I know myself, I trust my abilities. It’s just a matter of time; I know my chance will definitely come.”

His current mandate, he explained, is one of selfless support for the collective effort while awaiting his turn. “For me right now, is just to support the players that have been playing and clap for others while I am still waiting for my chance.”

CAF Experience: A Necessary Tool for the Amakhosi Campaign

Having previously navigated the complexities of CAF inter-club football with Mamelodi Sundowns, Maboe believes his continental experience will be invaluable to the Glamour Boys as they progress through the tournament.

“I think in some games [my experience] will come in handy. I know how it feels playing away, the pressure of playing in this competition,” he commented.

Chiefs desperately require a win against Zamalek—a match scheduled for 15:00 SAST—as they look to recover from their opening 2-1 away defeat against Al Masry in Egypt last weekend.

Maboe is confident the team will learn from their initial outing and improve: “The game gave us the full sense that we are in control, but we didn’t convert our chances. I know we will definitely grow in the tournament, that’s for sure.”