Kaizer Chiefs are facing a major injury setback ahead of their crucial midweek clash against Siwelele, with a total of 10 players ruled out including six of their latest signings.
Ten Players on the Sidelines
The club confirmed that George Matlou, Thabiso Monyane, Ethan Chislett, Paeka Mako, Karabo Molefe, Given Msimango, Rushwin Dortley, Lebogang Maboe, Etiosa Ighodaro, and Nkhanyisa Shinga are all unavailable for selection.
Among them, Maboe, Shinga, Ighodaro, and Chislett are yet to make their debuts for Amakhosi after joining during the most recent transfer window. Mako and Monyane, who featured earlier this season, were also part of this recruitment drive but have since picked up injuries.
Injury Updates and Recoveries
Despite the growing list of absentees, there is some positive news from Naturena. Chiefs revealed that Maboe, Ighodaro, and Shinga are close to returning to full fitness.
“Despite these setbacks, there’s a silver lining. The squad is seeing a wave of recoveries that could bolster the team in the coming games. Lebohang Maboe, Etiosa Ighodaro, and Nkanyiso Shinga are edging closer to full match fitness, offering the coaching staff a welcome selection dilemma,” the club said in a statement.
Key Absences for Kaizer Chiefs
Monyane and Dortley are among the most significant absentees. Monyane had cemented his place on the right flank before his injury, while Dortley played a pivotal role in the defence under coach Nasreddine Nabi last season.
Mako and Monyane’s current injuries are particularly concerning as both players struggled with fitness issues during their time at Orlando Pirates.
Critical Week Ahead
Chiefs will host Siwelele at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday night, hoping to bounce back from their recent poor run of form. Under co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, the team showed early-season promise but has struggled to maintain momentum.
The injury crisis comes at a crucial moment for Amakhosi, who also face Simba on Saturday in the CAF Confederation Cup. A victory would secure a historic group-stage qualification for the club.
As Chiefs look to revive their league title hopes and make continental progress, the return of key players from the treatment room could prove decisive.
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