Masilela weighs in on Mdu Shabalala’s challenges at Chiefs

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela has weighed in on the challenges facing talented attacker Mduduzi Shabalala at the Soweto giants.

Shabalala has come under heavy fire from the Amakhosi faithful in recent weeks following a dip in form. The Bafana Bafana international faced significant social media backlash after Chiefs crashed out of the Nedbank Cup Last 32, following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Stellenbosch FC last Wednesday.

During the clash against Stellies, Shabalala spurned three clear-cut scoring opportunities as Chiefs failed to defend the title they won last season.

The highly-rated youngster was again in the spotlight during Chiefs’ 2-1 win over Al Masry in the CAF Confederation Cup group stages this past weekend. Despite the victory, Shabalala missed several chances as he continues his search for a first goal since netting against Orbit College in the Betway Premiership on 4 November 2025.

Masilela’s Verdict on Shabalala’s Challenges at Chiefs

With Shabalala eager to rediscover his clinical edge in the second half of the season, Masilela has jumped to the defence of the Soweto-born midfielder, insisting that he only needs a single goal to restore his confidence and overcome his challenges at Chiefs.

“For me, Shabalala is not a problem at all. When you look at the ‘number 10’ or the attacking midfield role, you find different types of players,” the retired left-back told Soccer Beat.

“Shabalala likes playing in advanced areas and breaking the lines to get behind defenders. Unfortunately, he’s just missing that goal. Once he converts those chances, considering the position he plays, we’ll be singing a different tune about him.

“I like him because he doesn’t drop too deep to combine with others; he’s always looking to get in behind and stretch the opposition’s defence. He’s not a problem. Once he gets that one goal, the perception will change.”