Kaizer Chiefs will be without one of their brightest talents, Wandile Duba, when they face rivals Orlando Pirates in the Soweto Derby this weekend.
The 20-year-old winger has been suspended after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season during Chiefs’ 2-1 loss to Marumo Gallants. As a result, Duba will miss the highly anticipated clash at a sold-out FNB Stadium. The good news for Amakhosi fans is that Duba will be available for the Nedbank Cup final against the Buccaneers the following week.
Duba has been a standout performer for Chiefs lately, even finding the back of the net against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final. His absence leaves a big gap in attack for Chiefs, who are already struggling for consistency.
Adding to the concern, several other Amakhosi players — Inacio Miguel, Mduduzi Shabalala, Pule Mmodi, and Tashreeq Morris — are walking a tightrope. If any of them pick up another booking on Saturday, they’ll be suspended for the final.
Chiefs Facing Uphill Battle
It’s been a tough season for Chiefs. With only three games left, they must win them all to have any real shot at a top-eight finish, otherwise they risk missing out for a second season in a row.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi, who came in with high hopes in July, has found it hard to steady the ship. Their season now hinges on lifting the Nedbank Cup — their last shot at silverware.
Defensively, Chiefs have looked shaky, especially with Rushwin Dortley sidelined through injury. Inacio Miguel’s return could be crucial — but also risky. One more yellow card for him and he’ll miss the final too, leaving Amakhosi even more exposed at the back.
