Former Kaizer Chiefs center-back Nhlanhla Khubheka says attacking midfielders Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala should start for Amakhosi in Sunday’s Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates, as he believes they can make a difference.
The duo have been mainstays in the Chiefs line line-up this season with Vilakazi sitting on two goals and one assist in 16 league appearances, while Shabalala has found the back of the net five times in the league with three assists in 23 outings – two of Shabalala’s goals came in the last four matches.
The pair, however, missed the last derby, with Vilakazi having picked an injury a game before the 3-0 thrashing by their rivals and Shabalala was out because of technical reasons.
Khubhela told to iDiski Times senior journalist Matshelane Mamabolo in edition 252 of the newspaper that his side should go all out in attack and with the two players starting despite the stakes being high.
“We have a very interesting derby coming up this weekend because the two teams are in great form,” Kubheka told iDiski Times.
“Chiefs will approach this one differently given what happened in the first round and I expect them to go for an all-out attack.
“Hopefully the coaches will be cognisant of the fact that in the first round they had kept their creative players – Mfundo Vilakazi and Mdu Shabalala – out because these are the kind of players they need for this match.
“I am very impressed with Chiefs recent level of performance and I believe they go into the match with a high level of confidence.
“They are chasing a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup, as they are looking to go back into the continent, and this generation of players are eager to show they can be successful in Africa.
“Of course it is going to be a difficult match because Pirates are looking to win the championship so they will be out to showcase and send a message to Chiefs that they can do to them what they did in the first round.”
You can read Khubheka’s full thoughts on the Soweto derby in edition 252 when you subscribe to iDiski Times WhatsApp media number for FREE.
“I believe the two youngsters I’ve mentioned will be the key players for Chiefs if the coaches start with them and also Lebogang Maboe will be crucial, especially if he stamps his authority in the midfield like he’s been doing in recent matches.”
