Leaner sends Chiefs a message after dream debut
Renaldo Leaner may have arrived at Kaizer Chiefs as an understudy, but his impressive debut has given Amakhosi something to think about.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper was thrown into the deep end after Brandon Petersen suffered an injury in the build-up to the match last match.
Leaner grabbed the opportunity with both hands, producing a confident display and helping Chiefs keep a clean sheet against against Golden Arrows.
For Leaner, however, the biggest moment was finally fulfilling a childhood dream.
“It was really exciting for me to play my first game because it has always been a dream for me to play for Kaizer Chiefs, one of the biggest teams in South Africa,” said Leaner.
The former Sekhukhune United goalkeeper looked composed throughout the match, making two important close-range saves while commanding his penalty area with authority.
He believes his preparation and mentality helped him handle the pressure.
“I was able to make those saves because I went into the game with confidence and was very focused, which made me ready for action,” he added.
With Petersen still expected to be unavailable when domestic football resumes, Leaner could get another opportunity to stake his claim.
Rather than getting carried away by his debut, the goalkeeper is determined to work even harder.
“I see a bright future for myself where I can become a better goalkeeper in the future and achieve great things in my career,” he confessed.
Chiefs return to action next Tuesday when they host Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 7.30pm.
Leaner now has the perfect chance to turn a dream debut into a breakthrough at Naturena.
