Kaizer Chiefs striker earns first call-up for World Cup Qualifiers

New Kaizer Chiefs signing Flavio Silva has received his first international call-up for Guinea-Bissau, ahead of their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Sierra Leone and Djibouti.

Although Silva has yet to make his debut for Chiefs, the forward has been named in Emiliano Te’s 40-man preliminary squad for the two Group A qualifiers, both set to be played in Bissau. Guinea-Bissau will host Sierra Leone on Thursday, September 4, followed by a clash with Djibouti on Monday, September 8.

Born in Guinea-Bissau, Silva previously represented Portugal at U16 and U19 level, but has since switched his international allegiance. This marks his first senior call-up for his birth nation.

Guinea-Bissau currently trail group leaders Egypt by 10 points, with only four matches remaining. While World Cup qualification remains a long shot, a second-place finish could still put them in contention for the CAF playoff round in November.

Silva joined Kaizer Chiefs from Persebaya Surabaya in Indonesia during the off-season and featured in the club’s pre-season tour of the Netherlands. However, he missed the opening three matches of the Betway Premiership due to work permit delays.

When will Flavio Silva play for Chiefs?

Chiefs have now confirmed that his permit has been approved, making him eligible to debut in their upcoming clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at Soccer City on Wednesday night (live on SuperSport, kick-off 7:30pm).