Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune has expressed confidence in the current group of goalkeepers at the club, believing they have the potential to succeed. Chiefs brought in Fiacre Ntwari from TS Galaxy during the off-season, marking the end of Khune’s 25-year association with the club. Along with Ntwari, Brandon Petersen, Bruce Bvuma, and Bontle Molefe form the goalkeeping options for the first-team squad.
Ntwari has stepped up as the first-choice goalkeeper at the start of the season, with Petersen sidelined due to injury. However, there are growing concerns about the club’s long-term solution for the position. Despite these challenges, Khune has praised the goalkeepers for stepping into such a demanding role.
“It’s not easy playing for a club like Kaizer Chiefs,” Khune said. “There are many legends who have worn the jersey, and they have shared their experiences. The Chiefs jersey is heavy, and it’s not for everyone. Even journalists have acknowledged that not just anyone can wear it – you need to have the right mentality, the ‘Kaizer Chiefs material.’”
Khune believes the current goalkeepers have great potential but urged them to focus on their own development rather than trying to live up to the legacy of those who came before them. “They must forget about who they replaced, focus on themselves, and help the team moving forward,” he added.
Khune also reflected on his own experience of replacing another club legend, Brian Baloyi, who left Chiefs for Mamelodi Sundowns. Khune knew the pressure that came with stepping into Baloyi’s shoes, as Baloyi was a key figure in South African football. When Khune was promoted to the first team, he was given jersey number 16, and he recognized the weight of the responsibility.
“I knew I was replacing Brian Baloyi, someone who had achieved everything in South African football,” Khune said. “So when I got the number 16 jersey, I felt the pressure. I asked if they could add another 16 to make it 32, so I could create my own path. And it worked. I managed to inspire other goalkeepers.”
Khune’s advice to the current crop of goalkeepers is clear: don’t put unnecessary pressure on themselves by comparing their achievements to his. “They must run their own race, stay in their lane, and in no time, they will surpass what I have achieved,” he said.
