Chiefs Limp to Zambia: Injury Crisis Deepens Before Crucial CAF Clash
Kaizer Chiefs have a problem. And it’s getting worse at the worst possible time.
Coach Fernando Da Cruz has confirmed his injured players haven’t recovered ahead of Saturday’s CAF Confederation Cup clash against Red Arrows FC in Zambia. That leaves the technical team short of options for the first leg of the second preliminary round at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
“If we compare with the squad of yesterday (Tuesday against Stellenbosch FC), it will be more or less the same,” Da Cruz said.
“One or two changes, but our injured players have not recovered. It takes a little bit of time, but we are confident in our squad.”
The timing is brutal. Chiefs have drawn their last three Betway Premiership games, and Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are pulling further away at the top.
The big names missing from the travelling party include goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, and mifielders Lebohang Maboe, Langelihle Phili and Siphesihle Ndlovu.
The squad is so stretched that Da Cruz had to play Reeve Frosler in midfield against Stellenbosch. He pointed to the defender’s versatility and aerial ability, but admitted it was also a matter of necessity.
“We have two injured players and one fit player in his position. So, we don’t have a lot of choices,” he explained.
Still, Chiefs want an advantage in Ndola before the return leg as they chase a deeper run in Africa.
Chiefs’ 23-man travelling squad
Goalkeepers: Ronaldo Leaner, Bruce Bvuma, Takalani Mazhamba.
Defenders: Paseka Mako, Thabiso Monyane, Kabelo Nkgwesa, Inacio Miguel, Rushwin Dortley, Zitha Kwinika, Reeve Frosler, Bradley Cross, Thabo Moloisane, Sibongiseni Mthethwa.
Midfielders: Thulani Mabaso, Mduduzi Shabalala, Ethan Chislett, Mfundo Vilakazi, Luke Baartman, Asanele Velebayi, Faiz Abrahams.
Forwards: Flavio Da Silva, Wandile Duba, Etiosa Ighodaro.
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