Brandon Petersen: MTN8 gives Kaizer Chiefs chance to set season’s tone

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen believes the MTN8 is close enough for his side to win and use it to make an early statement in the new season.

Amakhosi return to the competition after missing out in each of the previous two seasons. Their campaign begins against Golden Arrows in the quarter-finals at FNB Stadium on Saturday, with victory securing a place in the semi-finals.

Petersen says the MTN8 represents the most attainable domestic trophy because a team needs to win only four matches to become champions. That short route to silverware has increased Kaizer Chiefs’ determination to make the most of their return.

The goalkeeper also described the team’s involvement in the tournament as a source of motivation, particularly after being absent for the previous two editions.

“To be back in the MTN8, I think that’s motivation on its own because we know how it felt to not be part of it,” said Petersen.

“And I think that alone sets the tone for us. That shows us that look here it’s there now, it’s within reach for us. it’s four games, then we’re there.

“And I think the most important one is the weekend [game against Arrows]. That first hurdle, that first step and that’s Golden Arrows on the weekend.

“I think for us it’s important to hit the ground running. To make sure that we set the tone for the season. I mean, this trophy, you win this trophy, it sets the tone for the season.

“So I think that’s the thinking for us now. That’s the goal to try and go all the way in this tournament and make sure that we set a nice foundation for us to go carry us the rest of the season.”

Petersen’s comments underline the importance Kaizer Chiefs are placing on the opening fixture. Although the MTN8 offers a relatively short route to a trophy, the first challenge comes against Golden Arrows, who stand between Amakhosi and a place in the last four.

For Kaizer Chiefs, the quarter-final is therefore both a return to a competition they have missed and an opportunity to establish momentum at the start of the season. Petersen said the side must approach the match with urgency and ensure they begin their campaign strongly.

The goalkeeper identified the match at FNB Stadium as the first decisive step towards the club’s stated ambition of going all the way in the tournament. Winning the MTN8, he added, would provide a strong foundation for the remainder of the season.

The quarter-final against Golden Arrows is the immediate priority, with Petersen stressing that progress depends on clearing that opening hurdle. Should Kaizer Chiefs succeed, they would move to within three victories of lifting the trophy, matching the four-match path he believes makes the competition particularly attainable.