Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Luke Baartman has explained the emotional moment he shared with Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr after being named Man of the Match in his side’s 3-1 over Kruger United.
Baartman, 20, only started one match last season – the final game against Chippa United, making seven appearances overall.
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However, new coach Fernando Da Cruz handed him an immediate start in Chiefs’ opener of 2026/27 – with the young midfielder receiving the Man of the Match award for an industrious display.
Just before he was handed the trophy, he shared an emotional moment with the club’s SD, saying Motaung Jr has been supporting him throughout the tough times.
“Last season, because I didn’t get a lot of chances to play he always messaged me when I’m not in the team to keep going, to keep my head up. That’s all,” he told SuperSport TV.
Baartman then also thanked his coach for the trust and admitted the award will go to his grandmother back in Cape Town.
“I want to give thanks to the man above,” he added.
“I think this one is going straight to my granny, to my community.
“It’s been a tough season, last season. I’ve only been playing five games, started the last.
“I just want to give thanks to the coach for believing in me and trusting me, and thanks to my teammates as well.”