Kaizer Chiefs blow? Forward forced off with injury ahead of club commitments 

Kaizer Chiefs have been left sweating over one of their key players after pulling up during a game for South Africa U23s.

South Africa’s Under-23 national side had to settle for a 1-1 draw against their Algerian counterparts in their second international friendly encounter on Sunday afternoon.

However, the match ended with Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman getting off due to a knock, leaving his club in a state of worry ahead of their club commitments from next weekend.  

Interim boss Karabo Mogudi once again led the dugout in place of head coach Raymond Mdaka, who remained away from the squad due to a family bereavement.

Algeria capitalise on defensive lapse

The hosts made six alterations to their starting lineup, handing Kgoleng Ratisani the gloves ahead of Tyler Fletcher-Rowe, while New England Revolution defender Tylon Smith was drafted into the heart of the defence.

Following a tight and cagey opening half-hour that offered very little goalmouth action, the home side found the breakthrough in the 34th minute. Kutlwano Letlhaku delivered a direct run down the left channel before drilling a dangerous ball into the six-yard box, forcing Algerian defender Faiz Belgouirai to turn it into his own net.

The visitors took little time to issue a response. Capitalising on a lapse in the South African backline, an unmarked Benahmed Kohili pounced from close range to restore parity.

Kaizer Chiefs star pulls up with injury

The hosts were then dealt an injury setback on the stroke of half-time when Baartman picked up a knock and was replaced by Stellenbosch striker Quwan Plaatjies.

South Africa pushed to regain their lead early in the second period, with Plaatjies squandering a golden opportunity 10 minutes after the restart by dragging his shot wide after breaking through on goal.

With seven minutes remaining, substitute Faiz Abrahams thought he had snatched a late winner, but his first-time effort was cleared off the line by the Algerian defence.

The shared spoils brought an end to an intense contest as both teams continue their preparations for the upcoming Olympic Qualifiers.