Ighodaro targeting first Kaizer Chiefs goal after injury-hit debut season

Etiosa Ighodaro is determined to score his first goal for Kaizer Chiefs after an injury-disrupted opening campaign restricted the striker to six appearances.

The 25-year-old joined Amakhosi at the start of last season but was unable to build momentum as a series of fitness setbacks affected his involvement. He now believes a full pre-season has put him in a stronger position to demonstrate his ability.

“Last season was quite frustrating for me because of injuries,” he said. “But that is behind me now and I am looking forward to a great season. Hopefully, you’ll see the best of me. I am pushing myself hard to make the club and the supporters proud.”

Ighodaro said the playing time he received during pre-season had helped restore both his confidence and his physical sharpness after spending much of last term on the sidelines.

“I really benefitted from pre-season because I didn’t play a lot last season, so I needed the minutes in the practice games to build my confidence,” he said.

His next opportunity to make an impact comes on Sunday, when Kaizer Chiefs face Siwelele in the Betway Premiership at Dobsonville Stadium. Ighodaro is yet to find the net for Amakhosi and will be aiming to end that wait as Chiefs seek a return to winning form.

Kaizer Chiefs are unbeaten after four league matches and have collected eight points. However, they were held to a 2–2 draw by Richards Bay in their most recent outing, a result which left Ighodaro and his team-mates wanting more.

“Preparations are going well. We weren’t satisfied with getting only one point in our last game,” he said. “And we are working hard to make sure we don’t slip up on Sunday.”

Siwelele are still searching for their first league victory of the season, but Ighodaro expects them to provide a demanding test. The striker believes their intensity and physical approach will require Chiefs to be fully prepared.

“Siwelele play aggressively with a lot of commitment, so we are ready for their physicality, but we believe in ourselves and our own ability to come out on top.”

The match will give Ighodaro another chance to turn his improved fitness into a sustained contribution as Fernando Da Cruz continues to assess his attacking options at Kaizer Chiefs.

Despite his limited involvement last season, the striker said he remained grateful for the backing he received from supporters. He praised the travelling support that has helped create a strong atmosphere at Chiefs matches.

“To all Amakhosi fans, I am really happy for the support you are giving us. I really appreciate how you fill up the stadiums to get behind us and I hope you keep coming.”

Ighodaro’s immediate priorities are straightforward: remain fit, secure regular playing time and finally provide Chiefs supporters with a consistent view of the striker they signed.

For now, Sunday’s meeting with Siwelele represents his latest opportunity to begin repaying that faith and open his Kaizer Chiefs goals account.