How Chiefs Could Have Fresh Start After FIFA Break

Photo by Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images

With Kaizer Chiefs potentially boosted by up to eight players becoming available, six for the first time this season after the FIFA break, Soccer Laduma analyses the dynamic.

Defence

Since the 3-1 defeat to Sekhukhune United, which ended a five-game run without conceding, Amakhosi have kept only one clean-sheet, in the CAF Confederation Cup against Kabuscorp.

As The Glamour Boys conceded in draws against Marumo Gallants and AmaZulu and also lost 1-0 to Kabuscorp away.

Read: 5 Concerns In Absence Of Nabi At Chiefs

The injuries of Thabiso Monyane and Paseka Mako appear to have destabilized the back-line, who both are nearing return.

Chiefs will also be bolstered by the return from long-term injuries of Rushwin Dortley and Given Msimango, who are yet to feature this season.

While fit and playing, Dortley was a regular also at Bafana Bafana last season.

Midfield

Amakhosi at times, appear to be lacking in midfield, with neither Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Thabo Cele and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo unable to play from box-to-box.

The potential availability of Lebohang Maboe, who has the characteristics to help in attack and defence in midfield would be a big boost for The Glamour Boys.

Attack

Chiefs finished last season as the team with the highest xG (expected goals), having created the most number of chances and had shots at goal but were not converting.

After almost one third of the season played, the Soweto giants once again are top of those metrics but are not scoring enough.

The availability of Asanele Velebayi, cleared by SAFA Appeal arbitration and potential return from injury of Etiosa Ighodado will add to the attacking dynamic that is need of goals.

Baartman, also given the greenlight to feature for Chiefs was with the U20 national team at the U20 World Cup in Chile and it remains to be seen if he would be given a rest or to be given a chance to hit the ground running.

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