Ighodaro targets injury-free campaign as Kaizer Chiefs seek stronger season

Kaizer Chiefs striker Etiosa Ighodaro says he is determined to move on from last season’s injury problems and make a greater contribution during the current campaign.

The 25-year-old featured only six times in all competitions during the 2025/26 season after a succession of injuries disrupted his progress. Having completed pre-season with the squad, Ighodaro believes he is now in a better position to rebuild his confidence and rediscover his best form.

He has already made three appearances this term and is hoping for a sustained run in the side as Kaizer Chiefs attempt to improve after ending the previous campaign without a trophy.

“Last season was quite frustrating for me because of injuries,” he told the club’s website.

“But that is behind me now and I am looking forward to a great season. Hopefully, you’ll see the best of me. I am pushing myself hard to make the Club and the supporters proud.

“I really benefitted from pre-season because I didn’t play a lot last season so I needed the minutes in the practice games to build my confidence.”

Ighodaro’s next opportunity to help the team comes on Sunday, when Kaizer Chiefs face Siwelele at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto.

The match follows a disappointing 2-2 draw with Richards Bay, a result which left Kaizer Chiefs with only one point from their previous fixture. Ighodaro said the squad had been unhappy with that outcome and was working to avoid another setback.

“Preparations are going well. We weren’t satisfied with getting only one point in our last game,” he added.

“We are working hard to make sure we don’t slip up on Sunday.

“Siwelele play aggressively with a lot of commitment, so we are ready for their physicality, but we believe in ourselves and our own ability to come out on top.”

Ighodaro’s return to fitness offers Kaizer Chiefs another attacking option after his limited involvement last season. His participation in pre-season was particularly important because he had missed a significant number of matches and needed competitive practice minutes to restore his assurance.

The striker’s comments come as the club looks to put a trophyless campaign behind it, while also responding to the challenge posed by Siwelele’s aggressive and physical approach.

A related report has seen Da Cruz explain Abrahams’ lack of game-time, while another has focused on Da Cruz defending Petersen.

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