Kaizer Chiefs supporters are looking forward to seeing how their team performs in the upcoming Nedbank Cup, where they will face Free Agents in the Round of 32.
Chiefs will feel confident about progressing to the next round, having drawn Free Agents, a team from the Gauteng ABC Motsepe League. However, as some fans have pointed out, nothing is guaranteed in football:
“My team Chiefs is already out. You all know we’ve struggled against these small teams over the years.”
“Starting January 26, I want to see new players in KCFC jerseys at FNB. I’m tired of being a laughing stock.”
The match will take place on Sunday, 26 January, at 18:00.
In transfer news, Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly eyeing Glody Makabi Lilepo, a 27-year-old striker currently playing for third-tier French club Valenciennes. The Congolese forward, who previously played for Sudanese side Al Hilal, is said to be available for a fee in the region of €500,000 (around R9.6 million).
Lilepo made a name for himself during a standout run in the CAF Champions League under coach Florent Ibenge, scoring five goals in 10 appearances. Despite Valenciennes’ relegation from Ligue 1 last season, Lilepo has continued to impress, with seven goals and five assists in 46 appearances for the club. He also has one goal from 11 caps for DR Congo.
Chiefs are not the only club interested in Lilepo, with teams from France’s second tier and across Africa also monitoring his situation.
On the youth front, one player Kaizer Chiefs are eager to keep is 21-year-old Mduduzi Shabalala. The attacking midfielder, who celebrated his birthday on 20 January, has been in fine form this season and is quickly becoming the team’s creative force. After some inconsistent performances last season, Shabalala has stepped up and is now a key player for the club, contributing four goals and one assist from 13 appearances.
A new contract for Shabalala is a well-deserved reward for his efforts, as he continues to shine as the playmaker and attacking hub for the team.
Another player still on Chiefs’ radar is Oswin Appollis from Polokwane City. However, his price tag may prove to be a stumbling block for the club. The winger has long been a target, but with Polokwane City holding out for a significant fee, it remains to be seen whether Chiefs will pursue this move further.
