Kaizer Chiefs set to face Richards Bay with key absentees
Kaizer Chiefs set to face Richards Bay with key absentees and other injuries.
Chiefs will go into their next game this Wednesday in a crucial league match but the team will be without key player Nkosingiphile Ngcobo due to an injury concern. Chiefs aim to get back to winning ways after drawing 1-1 with Magesi FC in their previous league encounter. However, the team is also recovering from a heavy 4-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in the Carling Knockout, and head coach Nasreddine Nabi faces an injury dilemma.
Ngcobo picked up an injury during Sunday’s training session, leaving his availability for Wednesday’s match uncertain. Chiefs coach Nabi confirmed the setback and acknowledged the injury as a concern for the upcoming game. “The only concern we have is Mshini, who came back very well [in recent weeks]. He got injured in training yesterday. We have to do a test today, but it’s uncertain [that he’ll play],” Nabi said, raising questions over his fitness.
Ntwari’s injury: Goalkeeping spot up for grabs
In addition to Ngcobo’s injury, Kaizer Chiefs must also address an injury concern regarding goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari. Ntwari, who had been playing consistently for the club this season, picked up a knock while playing for Rwanda in a recent AFCON qualifier against Nigeria. Despite returning to training, Nabi remains cautious about Ntwari’s status. “Ntwari came back from the national team slightly injured, but he returned to training two days ago. Between the three keepers, it’s open. We need the competition between the three; it’s open, and we will make the best decision based on their performance,” said Nabi, leaving the goalkeeping situation uncertain for Wednesday’s match.
With Ntwari’s injury in question, former Bidvest Wits goalkeeper Brandon Petersen could be in line to feature. Petersen has impressed in recent performances, particularly during the Home of Legends Cup. He was brought on as a second-half substitute in the 2-0 win over Golden Arrows and played the final against Sundowns, a match that ended in a goalless draw and was decided by a penalty shootout, which Chiefs won. Nabi’s assistants, Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, will be closely evaluating Petersen’s performances as they make their decision for Wednesday’s encounter.
Chiefs look to bounce back
With both Ngcobo and Ntwari uncertain for the midweek clash, Kaizer Chiefs will need to step up their game to overcome Richards Bay FC and get back on track in the league. Despite recent setbacks, Chiefs will be eager to perform in front of their fans and show their resilience as they face a busy period of fixtures.
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