Kaizer Chiefs forward Wandile Duba has revealed the harsh realities of professional football, sharing that criticism from fans has escalated to death threats. Despite being a key figure for Chiefs this season, the 21-year-old striker remains unshaken, focusing on his game rather than the negativity online.
Rising Star in the Betway Premiership
Duba has been a standout performer for the Glamour Boys in the current Betway Premiership campaign. He has featured in four league games and already registered an assist, showcasing the technical staff’s trust in his abilities. Chiefs’ coach, Nasreddine Nabi, has consistently backed the young striker, recognising his potential to lead the attack.
Last season, Duba played a crucial role in ending Chiefs’ ten-year trophy drought, scoring pivotal goals on their journey to lifting the 2025 Nedbank Cup with a 2-1 victory over fierce rivals Orlando Pirates. Over the previous campaign, he made 25 appearances across all competitions, netting five goals and contributing three assists.
Wandile Duba Facing Intense Criticism
While Duba’s on-field exploits have earned praise, his aggressive style of play has drawn criticism on social media. Opposition fans have accused him of being a malicious player, and some have crossed the line with threatening messages.
“Being criticised is part of the job. If you do good, they talk, and if you do bad, they still talk. So I just need to focus on what I do best,” Duba said. He spoke candidly at the Nedbank multipurpose court handover at Phulong Secondary School in Kwa-Thema, Springs, emphasising that the threats do not affect his performance.
Duba admitted that the abuse can get to him at times but credited his brother for helping him remain grounded. “I usually just talk to my brother, and he always guides me. At times, I feel like sending a text back after getting a negative comment or someone swearing at me,” he explained.
Competition at the Front
This season, Duba faces stiff competition for a starting spot following the arrivals of Flavio Silva and Etiosa Ighodaro. Alongside Tashreeq Morris and Ashley Du Preez, Chiefs now boast a formidable attacking lineup. Despite this, Duba is determined to maintain his place and learn from his teammates while continuing to assert himself as a key figure upfront.
“We’ve started the season very well because we are now stronger and understand the coach much better. So, I think we’ll win more games this season,” Duba said. Chiefs currently sit second in the league with 13 points from four wins and one draw, remaining unbeaten heading into the Fifa break.
Fearless and Confident
Duba’s fearless approach has been evident since his debut, where he scored a remarkable goal against Golden Arrows. He continued to shine in last season’s Nedbank Cup semi-final against Mamelodi Sundowns, scoring the equaliser and earning Player of the Match honours. His bold statements before matches, including a confident prediction of Chiefs lifting the Nedbank Cup, have made him a polarising figure — admired for his bravery, yet criticised for his aggressiveness.
The striker’s hard tackles, including one on midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula in the Nedbank Cup final, have sparked backlash. Still, Duba remains unfazed by the threats, choosing instead to concentrate on improving his game and helping Chiefs succeed.
Staying Committed to Kaizer Chiefs
Despite rumours of a potential move away, Duba confirmed his commitment to Chiefs. “I think last season I showed that I am ready for anything and to be Kaizer Chiefs’ No. 1 striker. I will still work harder,” he said. His dedication reflects a hunger to continue his rise, contributing to Chiefs’ positive start and keeping the team in contention for the Betway Premiership title.
With determination, talent, and resilience, Wandile Duba remains one of the most exciting young stars in the country’s top-flight football, proving that even under pressure, he can rise above criticism and deliver on the field.
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