Luke Baartman Reveals How Kaizer Motaung Jr Inspired His Kaizer Chiefs Comeback After Difficult Season
Kaizer Chiefs’ opening night victory was about far more than three points. Beneath the celebrations at full time was a deeply personal story of resilience, belief and quiet encouragement that helped one of the club’s brightest young talents rediscover his confidence.
Luke Baartman delivered a standout Man of the Match performance as Amakhosi defeated Kruger United 3-1 in their opening Betway Premiership fixture on Saturday evening. However, the 20 year old winger has revealed that his return to form was fuelled by the unwavering support of Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr during one of the most challenging periods of his career.
After spending much of last season watching from the sidelines, Baartman was handed a rare starting opportunity by new head coach Fernando da Cruz. It was a chance he seized with both hands.
The young winger looked sharp throughout the contest, constantly troubling Kruger United’s defence before making way in the 85th minute after an energetic and influential display.
Speaking after receiving the Man of the Match award, Baartman shared how regular messages from Motaung Jr kept his spirits alive when opportunities on the pitch were scarce.
“Last season, because I didn’t get a lot of chances to play, Kaizer Motaung Jr always messaged me whenever I wasn’t in the team,” Baartman said.
“He would tell me to keep going and to keep my head up. That’s all.”
Those simple words carried significant weight for a player whose confidence was tested after arriving from Cape Town Spurs and struggling to establish himself in the first team.
Instead of allowing disappointment to define his journey, Baartman continued working behind the scenes while waiting for another opportunity.
That patience was finally rewarded.
Fernando da Cruz showed faith in the talented youngster by naming him in the starting line up, and Baartman responded with one of the finest performances of his young Kaizer Chiefs career.
Reflecting on the emotional moment, the winger credited both his faith and those closest to him for helping him persevere.
“I thank God for this award. I dedicate it to my grandmother and my community. It was a difficult season for me, but I never stopped believing,” he said.
Chiefs secured an impressive 3-1 victory thanks to Flavio Da Silva’s opening goal before substitute Wandile Duba sealed the result with a second half brace.
While the scoreline marked a positive beginning to the Betway Premiership campaign, Baartman’s emergence may prove equally significant for Amakhosi as they seek greater attacking depth this season.
His composed display, relentless work rate and attacking intent have strengthened his case for a regular place in Da Cruz’s plans.
With an MTN8 clash against Golden Arrows looming next weekend, Baartman has given the coaching staff a timely reminder that persistence, patience and belief can transform a career.
Sometimes the most important victories happen long before the final whistle.
