Kaizer Chiefs Players Still Awaiting Their Season Debut
As Kaizer Chiefs prepare for their toughest match of the season so far against unbeaten Sekhukhune United, the spotlight isn’t only on who will start, but also on those still waiting. Eighteen players remain unused since the start of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign, despite Chiefs remaining unbeaten alongside Sekhukhune and Mamelodi Sundowns.
Tonight’s home game at FNB Stadium offers a high-stakes opportunity for coach Nasreddine Nabi to reshuffle his line-up and possibly hand out long-awaited debuts or first appearances.
Unused but Not Forgotten: The 18 Waiting in the Wings
With so many talented individuals on the books, the Chiefs squad reflects serious depth, but also growing frustration among fans and fringe players. Here’s a look at those still waiting for minutes:
- Khanyisa Mayo – One of the marquee signings of the window. Still yet to appear, leaving fans eager to see his attacking flair.
- Lebohang Maboe – Fully fit again but hasn’t cracked the matchday squad. His creative spark in midfield is much needed.
- Asanele Velebayi – His debut has been delayed due to a legal tug-of-war with Cape Town Spurs.
- Tashreeq Morris – Still linked with a move away, the forward hasn’t played and looks set for an exit.
- Thulani Mabaso – The promising youth prospect has yet to earn senior minutes but remains highly rated.
- Given Msimango – A defensive rock last season, surprisingly not used yet under Nabi.
- Dillan Solomons – Versatile full-back who’s slipped down the pecking order despite his experience.
- Bontle Molefe – The young keeper is still learning from the senior squad and waiting for his chance.
- Nkanyiso Shinga – A recent signing still integrating into the squad.
- Luke Baartman – Another player affected by legal issues with former club Cape Town Spurs.
- Bruce Bvuma – Trusted goalkeeper with national experience. Oddly still benched this season.
- Kabelo Nkgwesha – A youth team graduate itching for a breakthrough.
- Samkelo Zwane – Competing in a stacked midfield, he’s still awaiting his shot this season.
- Fiacre Ntwari – The Rwandan international is yet to feature, with Petersen preferred in goal.
- Etiosa Ighodaro – A proven goal scorer in the PSL, but hasn’t had a chance in the current campaign.
- Happy Mashiane – A left-sided option who has yet to be involved this season.
- Ethan Chislett – The English-born playmaker
- Rushwin Dortley – Injuries have kept him out so far, though he was crucial last season.
Chiefs’ Probable XI for Sekhukhune Clash
With Sekhukhune United visiting the FNB Stadium, Kaizer Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi is expected to stick with a settled and reliable line-up. Despite having 18 players yet to feature this season, tonight’s clash is likely to see continuity as the Soweto giants aim to protect their unbeaten run.
Goalkeeper
- Brandon Petersen
- Continues to assert himself as the undisputed number one
- Expected to retain his place after a solid start to the season
Defence
- Thabiso Monyane (Right-back)
- Inacio Miguel (Centre-back)
- Zitha Kwinika (Centre-back)
- Paseka Mako (Left-back)
- Mako is making the left-back position his own with consistent performances
Midfield
- Sibongiseni Mthethwa (Defensive Midfield)
- Has improved steadily this season and will likely anchor the midfield
- Siphesihle Ndlovu (Central Midfield)
- Brings energy and pressing in the middle of the park
- Thabo Cele (Central Midfield)
- Offers balance and passing range in possession
Attack
- Lilepo (Right Wing)
- Pule Mmodi or Ashley Du Preez (Left Wing)
- Both players are viable options depending on tactical preference
- Flavio da Silva (Striker)
- Scored the match-winner against Golden Arrows
- Expected to earn his first start in front of the home crowd
Possible Line-up: Petersen, Monyane, Miguel, Kwinika, Mako, Mthethwa, Ndlovu, Cele, Lilepo, Mmodi, Da Silva
Coach Nabi faces a tough balancing act. Results have been positive, but the need to manage player morale and rotate responsibly is growing. Fans are clamouring to see Mayo, Maboe, and Ighodaro in particular, all attacking threats who could energise the squad.
The upcoming fixture congestion, including potential cup and continental matches, may finally offer a window for these players. For now, they’ll be hoping to catch Nabi’s eye from the bench, or even from the stands.
Check also: Kaizer Chiefs to Trim Squad and Loan Out Young Talent
