Brandon Petersen says criticism will not define him before Soweto Derby

Kaizer Chiefs captain and goalkeeper Brandon Petersen says the criticism that followed his costly mistakes earlier this season will not define him as he prepares for the Soweto Derby.

Petersen returned to action in midweek after recovering from injury, helping Kaizer Chiefs to a 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Carling Knockout Cup.

The goalkeeper had been under pressure before his injury after making a number of errors during the opening stages of the campaign. Some of those mistakes had a direct impact on the team’s results and led to criticism of his performances.

Petersen, however, says he remains confident in his ability and is determined to focus on improvement rather than the negative attention surrounding his earlier displays.

“I think the most important thing for me is to know that those words and negative stuff going around doesn’t define me as a person, as a footballer, because I’m much more than that,” said Petersen.

“Secondly, it’s for me to know my worth and yeah, like I said, it’s important to know who you are and what you stand for.

“And when you get that right, I mean, nothing else that’s happening around you really, I won’t say faze you, but it doesn’t really buckle you or it’s not really an obstacle in the road because for me, I know what I’m about.

“I know what I’m able to produce. And like I said, it’s believing in myself and knowing that the people around me believes in me.

“So, the main focus should always be improving and getting better and, you know, giving a good display of yourself.”

His return came at an important point for Kaizer Chiefs, who will now turn their attention to the Soweto Derby after securing their place in the next stage of the Carling Knockout Cup with a convincing win over TS Galaxy.

Petersen’s performance against TS Galaxy provided an opportunity to rebuild confidence after his difficult start to the season. He had spent time on the sidelines through injury before being restored to the team for the midweek cup match.

Although the goalkeeper acknowledged the attention created by his previous mistakes, he said his priority was to remain focused on his own standards and the support he receives from those around him.

For Petersen, knowing his own value and maintaining belief in his abilities are central to dealing with setbacks. He said criticism should not become an obstacle as he works to improve and produce stronger performances for Kaizer Chiefs.