EXCLUSIVE: Kaizer Chiefs ready to make a statement in MTN8 clash, says Lehlohonolo Majoro

There is every reason to believe that this season could be the start of something big for Kaizer Chiefs, and former Amakhosi forward Lehlohonolo Majoro believes this weekend’s MTN8 opener is the perfect place to set the tone.

“It is very important for Kaizer Chiefs to start the MTN8 with a bang against Golden Arrows, especially because they haven’t been in the competition for the past two seasons,” Majoro told IOL in an exclusive interview.

Chiefs will welcome Arrows to FNB Stadium for the quarter-final clash on Sunday. Kick-off is at 18:00.

Amakhosi dispatched newly-promoted Kruger United 3-1 in their opening Betway Premiership fixture last weekend and will be buoyed by that positive result.

Kaizer Chiefs’ Confidence Boost and Golden Arrows’ Unpredictability in MTN8 Clash

“Having won their first match of the season in the league must have given them a boost of confidence and a sense of belief—especially with a new coach in the camp. Everyone wants to impress, raise their hand, and showcase their talent.”

Majoro, now 39, who made over 50 appearances for Chiefs during his playing career, is encouraged by the composition and depth of the squad heading into the new campaign.

“We saw over the weekend when they won 3–1 that Wandile Duba came off the bench and scored two quick goals to show he should also be counted among the starters.

“That gives a team of Kaizer Chiefs’ caliber real options and depth. When you have a starter who scores goals and someone on the bench who can come in and do the same, it gives the coach ammunition and the belief that you can win every game you play.”

As for Golden Arrows, who will be navigating the fixture following the departure of coach Manqoba Mngqithi at the end of June, Majoro noted that they remain an unpredictable opponent in a cup format.

“Golden Arrows are no pushovers. Drawing their first match isn’t a bad start, but it’s not a great start either. We know that teams always turn up and showcase their talent when playing against the so-called big teams.

“With Arrows losing their coach, Manqoba Mngqithi, I don’t know what impact that will have on the players—sometimes players panic a bit when they lose a coach they’ve been with for a season or two. We will have to wait and see, but it remains very important for Kaizer Chiefs to showcase their intent in this MTN8 game.”

@Michael_Sherman

IOL Sport