Mduduzi Shabalala: Kaze issues big challenge to Kaizer Chiefs youngster

Kaizer Chiefs coach Cedric Kaze has lauded midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala for his recent resurgence, highlighting his crucial assist in the 2-0 PSL win over TS Galaxy on Sunday.

Shabalala set up Flavio Silva for the opening goal, a key moment in a dominant performance by Amakhosi. Kaze acknowledged the 22-year-old’s recent struggles and praised his perseverance through a challenging period.

“Shabalala is a player with very big potential,” Kaze stated as per iDiski Times. “It’s true that there was some time he felt disappointed with his performances and the harsh critics that came to him.”

Kaze wants a consistent Shabalala

Kaizer Chiefs' Mduduzi Shabalala and Kaizer Motaung Jr. — Kaizer Chiefs’ Mduduzi Shabalala and Kaizer Motaung Jr. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs

The Burundian coach emphasised that facing adversity is a natural part of a player’s career and was impressed with how Shabalala has handled the pressure.

“You know, it’s part of being a footballer, and the biggest thing is to have a strong mentality and keep working hard, keep improving every day,” Kaze added. “I’m happy that he’s turning the corner.”

Despite the positive signs, the Chiefs’ technical team is demanding more from the young talent. Kaze made it clear that the next challenge for Shabalala is to deliver strong performances regularly.

“But now we will look for more consistency in his game,” he concluded, regarding the 22-year-old, who has four goals and two assists in 31 matches this season.

Kaizer Chiefs eye fifth straight PSL win

Mduduzi Shabalala and Wandile Duba celebrating Kaizer Chiefs goal – Image: Chiefs

The victory, which marks Chiefs’ fourth consecutive win, has injected new momentum into their campaign. It keeps their ambitious goal of a top three finish alive as they head into the critical final stretch of the season.

Chiefs take on Magesi FC in Polokwane on Wednesday, looking to make it five straight win which will extend their impressive run as they are on their best league form of the season.

A win at Magesi will firm up their spot in third place as it will see them open a six-point gap over fourth-placed AmaZulu and still with a game in hand over their rivals for a CAF Confederation Cup slot.