Inspired Kaizer Chiefs attacker ready to emulate ‘brother’ Baartman against Sundowns

Kaizer Chiefs stars are determined to help the club claim maximum points when they face Mamelodi Sundowns in a high-profile Premier Soccer League fixture this weekend.

Among them is Asanele Velebayi, who joined the Glamour Boys last season from Cape Town Spurs. His debut year wasn’t as expected under co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, as the tacticians preferred other players who were more experienced.

New coach Fernando Da Cruz has already shown he has faith in Velebayi and Luke Baartman. The latter was on target in the 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United on Wednesday in the top-tier fixture.

Velebayi is happy with his ‘brother’ and has promised to give his best if he gets a chance against the Brazilians on Saturday at the FNB Stadium. He has further revealed the impact Baartman’s strike had on him.

Velebayi on Baartman’s inspiration

“Baartman getting his first goal was inspiring for me, and it was also a proud moment because we’ve come along way with one another. He is like a brother to me,” the winger stated in a presser.

“After a decent pre-season I’m just looking for consistency. We are playing against the African champions and I can only imagine how tough that is going to be, but we are going into this game with confidence after winning our opening two league games.

“I’ve picked up from coach Fernando that he is very demanding, because even when you think you are performing at your best, he always wants that 1% extra from you,” he added.

In the last five years, Mamelodi Sundowns have beaten Kaizer Chiefs seven times in the PSL, with three other games ending in a draw.