Kaizer Chiefs gear up to conclude the year with a crucial DStv Premiership encounter at Peter Mokaba Stadium against Sekhukhune United.
All eyes will be on Ashley du Preez, the forward is eager to reclaim his spot in the starting line-up after a two-month injury hiatus.
Du Preez, making a comeback as a second-half substitute in their recent 1-0 victory over Richards Bay, expressed his joy at being back on the pitch. “Injury is always a setback. It is frustrating mentally. It was so nice to play a few minutes in the Richards Bay game,” he commented on the eve of the clash in Polokwane.
Sekhukhune, under the helm of new coach Lehlohonolo Seema, have experienced mixed fortunes in the league, securing a win and enduring a loss in their recent outings. Despite their commendable performance in the CAF Confederations Cup, where they still vie for qualification, they find themself precariously positioned at 14th in the league, just seven points clear of the relegation play-off spot.
In contrast, Chiefs, despite weathering controversies this season, are riding a wave of success with three consecutive wins under interim boss Cavin Johnson, propelling them to sixth place. A victory in the upcoming clash could potentially catapult them into the top four.
The history between the two teams lean in favour of Chiefs, who have clinched victory in three out of their last five encounters. Currently the in-form team, Chiefs have won four of their last five matches, showcasing resilience amid a challenging season.
The Polokwane-based Sekhukhune, on the other hand, grapple with inconsistent form, winning just two of their last five games across all competitions. Hosting six teams at the Peter Mokaba Stadium this season, they have experienced a 50% loss rate in these fixtures.
In the away category, Chiefs have been a force to be reckoned with, securing three victories in their seven outings this season. AmaKhosi boast an impressive defensive record, conceding only 11 times in 15 games, a joint-second best defence in the league alongside Cape Town City, TS Galaxy, and Moroka Swallows.
Sekhukhune face a concern with their struggle to find the back of the net in 36% of their league fixtures this season. The upcoming clash promises a defensive battle, as the previous four meetings between the two teams resulted in two clean sheets for both sides.
Players to watch out for include Pule Mmodi and Edson Castillo for Kaizer Chiefs, both in good goal-scoring form. For Sekhukhune, the danger lies in the capable boots of forward Chibuike Ohizu, who has netted four league goals, and Jamie Webber, with three goals to his name, provided they are fit for the encounter.