Kaizer Chiefs coach explains why impressive Msimango was missing against Magesi

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Kaizer Chiefs coach explains why impressive Msimango was missing against Magesi
Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango addresses the media. Photo: SABC

Kaizer Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef has clarified why defender Given Msimango was surprisingly left on the bench for their 4-1 thrashing of Magesi FC on Wednesday.

The decision to drop Msimango raised eyebrows, especially after his solid performances in previous games. However, the team’s depth allows the coaching staff, including Cedric Kaze, the flexibility to adjust their starting eleven as needed.

The centre-back was a standout performer in recent victories over Orbit College and TS Galaxy, leading many to believe he had secured his spot in the starting lineup. However, he was the sole change in the team that faced Magesi FC, making way for a different defensive pairing.

Given Msimango of Kaizer Chiefs against Zamalek
Given Msimango of Kaizer Chiefs against Zamalek. Photo – Kaizer Chiefs

Why was Msimango dropped for Magesi clash?

For the match, Inacio Miguel partnered with Aden McCarthy in central defence. The tactical switch did not hinder the team’s momentum, as the Glamour Boys cruised to a dominant victory.

Speaking to the media after the win at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, Ben Youssef explained the reasoning behind the change.

“As I said, we don’t depend on one player. It’s a big squad, and we have to rotate,” he stated. “Sometimes it’s about prevention, and sometimes it’s the workload. The decision was made last week, and we knew that [Inacio] Miguel would play this game.”

“That’s the plan that we prepared, and we are proud because every player who came to the pitch helped. Miguel also performed very well today. Last week, it was Given [Msimango]. So sometimes we need to make rotations,” he concluded.

Kaizer Chiefs eyeing perfect six in Polokwane

Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango in training
Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango in training.

With a fifth consecutive win secured, Chiefs will look to maintain their form against Polokwane City on Saturday before turning their attention to the highly anticipated Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on April 26.

Msimango, having recently returned from a long-term injury, will be eager to earn a spot in the starting lineup for the high-profile PSL clash.

However, several players from both Soweto giants are walking a disciplinary tightrope ahead of the derby. For Chiefs, Flavio Silva, Mfundo Vilakazi, Siphesihle Ndlovu, and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo are each one yellow card away from suspension.

Similarly, Orlando Pirates’ Andre De Jong, Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Mpho Chabatsane are also at risk. 

<!-- Author Start -->Joel Oliver<!-- Author End -->

Joel Oliver

Author

Joel Oliver is a seasoned multimedia sports journalist with a rich background in covering diverse football stories and events in South Africa and beyond.
His extensive coverage spans subjects touching on the PSL, with a focus on the Big Three (Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs & Mamelodi Sundowns), Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

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