Former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune has raised concerns about the lack of consistency in the club’s current goalkeeping department.
Following Khune’s departure, Chiefs have rotated between three goalkeepers this season; Bruce Bvuma, Brandon Petersen, and recent acquisition Fiacre Ntwari. However, none have been able to solidify the starting role or deliver consistent performances.
The trio has conceded 29 goals in the league – making the Amakhosi one of the most porous defences in the current campaign – and have kept only five clean sheets, all of which came from Bvuma across 16 appearances. Ntwari and Petersen have failed to register a clean sheet in their combined eight outings.
Speaking to iDiski Times journalist Lethabo Kganyago in the publication’s 200th edition, Khune underscored the importance of stability and endurance in the goalkeeping role, particularly for a club with the Amakhosi’s ambitions and stature.
“After me, yes, they need to get a goalkeeper who can give them 30 consecutive league games-someone who can play in all the domestic cup competitions and help win silverware for the club,” said Khune.
“A goalkeeper should be present throughout the season. But what we’ve seen this season is far from ideal. The team has played just 24 league matches, yet all three goalkeepers have already been utilised. There’s been no consistency. Some play two or three games, concede six or seven goals – that’s not the Kaizer Chiefs standard.”
Khune emphasised the broader qualities required of a top-level shot-stopper, extending beyond just technical skill.
“You need someone who is physically, mentally, and emotionally strong – someone reliable who can lead from the back and inspire the rest of the team,” he explained. “Unfortunately, I haven’t seen that level of leadership and consistency this season.”
Reflecting on his own time at the club, Khune expressed pride in his career and dedication to the Amakhosi faithful.
“Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility it came with. I gave everything on the field to earn the trust of the supporters, and I was rewarded by consistently being the first-choice keeper, playing 30 matches per season, and representing Bafana Bafana on the biggest stages.”
He added, “I never complained about fatigue or circumstances, because I knew those opportunities were rare. You don’t want to retire and be filled with regret.”
Khune’s comments come at a time when Chiefs are under increased scrutiny for inconsistent performances across the pitch, and his critique highlights a key area in need of reinforcement if the club hopes to re-establish itself as a dominant force in South African football.