Kaizer Chiefs await Luke Baartman injury update before Stellenbosch clash

Kaizer Chiefs are waiting for an assessment of Luke Baartman after the forward was injured while playing for South Africa Under-23s against Algeria on Sunday, 4 October 2026.

The 20-year-old was substituted shortly before half-time during the 1-1 draw at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium in Bloemfontein. Baartman appeared to be in discomfort before making way for Stellenbosch striker Quwan Plaatjies.

Kaizer Chiefs say their medical team is monitoring the attacker and will provide an update before Tuesday’s Betway Premiership meeting with Stellenbosch FC at FNB Stadium.

Reports have suggested Baartman may have suffered a thigh injury, although the club has not confirmed the nature of the problem, its severity or how long he could be unavailable.

Baartman was one of three players to return to Naturena after international duty with South Africa Under-23s. Mfundo Vilakazi and Faiz Abrahams came back without reported concerns, while Baartman’s injury has placed his involvement against Stellenbosch in doubt.

Important player for Da Cruz

The setback could affect head coach Fernando Da Cruz’s plans, with Baartman having established himself as an important part of the team during the opening months of the 2026-27 campaign.

He has made seven Betway Premiership appearances, starting five matches and playing 309 minutes. The forward has scored once in the competition.

Baartman has also featured 13 times across all competitions, recording 575 minutes on the pitch.

The possible absence would add to the injury problems Da Cruz has encountered since taking charge at Naturena. Kaizer Chiefs captain Brandon Petersen has been sidelined since suffering a left-knee medial collateral ligament injury in mid-September.

Petersen is expected to be out for approximately four to six weeks. His absence has led to Renaldo Leaner taking over in goal, with the goalkeeper keeping a clean sheet on his debut against Golden Arrows.

Kaizer Chiefs will therefore wait for the results of Baartman’s assessment before determining whether he can play a part in Tuesday’s fixture.