Elias Mokwana gives Kaizer Chiefs more attacking options out wide

Kaizer Chiefs have strengthened their long-standing tradition of exciting wide players with the signing of Bafana Bafana international Elias Mokwana.

The 27-year-old has joined Amakhosi after spells in Tunisia and Saudi Arabia, returning to South African football with experience gained overseas. His arrival gives the club another attacking option in positions that have been central to its identity.

Kaizer Chiefs have previously relied on the flair of players including John ‘Shoes’ Moshoeu, Arthur Zwane, Scara Ngobese, Jabu Mahlangu and Junior Khanye. Each offered different qualities, but all had the ability to take on defenders, create chances and influence matches from the flanks.

That style has long appealed to the Amakhosi faithful, who have valued players prepared to run at opponents, show confidence in possession and provide an unpredictable threat in the final third.

Mokwana now joins a squad with several players capable of operating in those areas. According to Transfermarkt’s positional breakdown, Kaizer Chiefs have a number of footballers listed as left and right wingers, including Pule Mmodi, Asanele Velebayi and Donay Jansen.

The new signing adds further competition on the right side of the attack, where he will challenge Lilepo and Velebayi for opportunities.

There are also options beyond those classed primarily as wingers. Mfundo Vilakazi and Mduduzi Shabalala can be used in wide attacking roles, while Langelihle Phili has demonstrated that he can play on either flank.

That variety gives the technical team flexibility when deciding how to structure the attack. The choice of players can be adjusted according to the opposition and the style of match Kaizer Chiefs want to play.

Mokwana offers a particular combination of qualities to the squad. His pace, direct approach and ability to create opportunities were prominent during his time at Sekhukhune United, where he developed into one of the more exciting wide players in the Betway Premiership.

His move abroad has added to that experience, and Kaizer Chiefs will hope he can bring those attributes to Naturena as he competes for a place in the starting line-up.

The depth available in the wide areas is an advantage for the club, but it also creates strong competition within the squad. Players will need to perform consistently if they are to establish themselves and keep their positions.