Kaizer Chiefs endured another frustrating night after drawing 1-1 with Stellenbosch in the Betway Premiership on Tuesday.
However, the result was not the only concern for Amakhosi. Coach Fernando Da Cruz fell ill during the match and required medical attention.
The latest setback also extended Chiefs’ disappointing run against Stellenbosch. Moreover, their inconsistent league form has increased the pressure on the Soweto giants.
Kaizer Chiefs struggle to find winning form
Chiefs have collected five draws from their last six Betway Premiership matches. Consequently, their hopes of challenging for the league title face growing uncertainty.
The Soweto club now trails defending champions Orlando Pirates by eight points after eight matches. They must therefore improve quickly to close the gap.
Meanwhile, Stellenbosch continue to frustrate Amakhosi whenever the sides meet. Chiefs have failed to beat the Winelands club in their last four encounters.
Before Tuesday’s draw, Stellenbosch had won their previous three meetings with Chiefs. The latest stalemate finally stopped that losing sequence for Amakhosi.
Nevertheless, Da Cruz’s health scare added another worrying moment to an already difficult evening. Doctors attended to the Chiefs coach after he fell ill.
Mduduzi Shabalala provided the goal for Amakhosi during the contest. Reeve Frosler supplied the assist, but Chiefs could not secure all three points.
Injury updates offer Chiefs some encouragement
Despite their disappointing result, Chiefs have received encouraging news regarding several injured players.
Striker Flavio Silva has returned to training. Khanyisa Mayo has also resumed training after recovering from a hernia operation.
Furthermore, young winger Langelihle Phili is approaching a potential return. The 21-year-old suffered a serious ankle injury during training in late August.
Phili could return towards the end of October. However, the technical team intends to manage his recovery carefully rather than rush him back.
Meanwhile, Lebohang Maboe missed the Stellenbosch encounter. Bradley Cross returned to action, although Thabiso Monyane suffered another injury setback.
Young attacker Luke Baartman remained an unused substitute against Stellenbosch. Chiefs also introduced several players from the bench as they sought to influence the contest.
Flavio Silva, Ethan Chislett, Asanele Velebayi, Kabelo Nkgwesa and Thulani Mabaso all entered the match.
Chiefs will hope their returning players can strengthen the squad in the coming weeks. However, they must also turn their improved availability into consistent performances and victories.
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