Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner ready for more after debut heroics

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner says his impressive first appearance for the club has strengthened his belief that he can build a successful future at Naturena.

The 28-year-old was brought into the starting line-up at short notice after club captain and first-choice goalkeeper Brandon Petersen suffered an injury.

Leaner responded with a composed display in Nelspruit, making several important close-range saves as Kaizer Chiefs secured a 0-0 draw against Lamontville Golden Arrows.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Leaner described the occasion as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“It was really exciting for me to play my first game because it has always been a dream for me to play for Kaizer Chiefs, one of the biggest teams in South Africa,” he said.

His performance under pressure appears to have moved him ahead of Bruce Bvuma in the current goalkeeping order, although Petersen remains unavailable.

Leaner is therefore expected to keep his place when the Soweto club return to Betway Premiership action against Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday.

The former Sekhukhune United goalkeeper said his preparation helped him settle quickly after being called into the team.

“I was able to make those saves because I went into the game with confidence and was very focused, which made me ready for action,” he said.

Leaner also set out his ambitions after making his long-awaited debut for the club.

“I see a bright future for myself where I can become a better goalkeeper in the future and achieve great things in my career,” he added.

A home victory against Stellenbosch would provide a significant lift for Da Cruz’s side in the Betway Premiership standings. Three points would move Kaizer Chiefs higher up the table, strengthen their push for a top-three finish and allow them to keep pressure on the teams leading the early campaign.

For Leaner, the match represents an opportunity to establish himself as the club’s dependable final line of defence while Petersen continues his recovery.

His ability to maintain the level of performance shown against Lamontville Golden Arrows could prove important as Kaizer Chiefs face a demanding domestic schedule.