‘It can break you down’: Velebayi on the reality of playing for Chiefs

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Asanele Velebayi has admitted that he is feeling the pressure to deliver “end product” at Naturena, acknowledging that his statistics must improve to match the expectations of the Amakhosi faithful.

The 23-year-old, who arrived at the club in August following a protracted legal battle involving his former side Cape Town Spurs, has now featured eight times for the Soweto giants.

However, despite flashes of brilliance on the flank, Velebayi has yet to register a goal or an assist—a reality he is eager to change starting this Sunday against Durban City FC in the Betway Premiership.

The Statistical Hurdle For Velebayi

Speaking ahead of the crucial Premiership clash at FNB Stadium, Velebayi was candid about his personal goals and the demands placed upon him by the technical team.

“I have individual goals I set for myself and requirements from the coach,” Velebayi explained. “I know the statistics are not on my side. The goal I have set for myself is to score more. I have been trying to create, but for me, now I need to score.”

A Team in Need of Goals

Velebayi’s personal quest for goals mirrors the collective struggle at Naturena. Chiefs have managed just 16 goals in 18 league matches this season, and a dismal run of four consecutive defeats across all competitions has seen their title ambitions evaporate and their CAF Confederation Cup journey reach an abrupt end.

Despite the recent turbulence, Velebayi insists the squad remains focused on the task at hand. “We know we have not been at our best… but we are very much prepared, and there is another game on Sunday. Everyone is looking forward to it.”

Transitioning from the relatively quiet atmosphere of Cape Town Spurs to the high-pressure environment of Kaizer Chiefs has been a significant learning curve for the young winger. While the weight of the “Amakhosi” brand can be daunting, Velebayi is determined to let his football do the talking.

“It is so different; this is a big brand,” he remarked. “But it is also positive in a way. It can keep you going if you have a good game. It can also break you down, but you don’t want to focus on that. The first thing is to control what you can do on the field.”

With Chiefs needing a win to climb back into third place, Velebayi’s ability to turn “trying to create” into “finding the net” could be the spark the Soweto giants desperately need.