Kaizer Chiefs boosted by Lebohang Maboe return before Red Arrows decider

Kaizer Chiefs have been handed a timely boost before their must-win CAF Confederation Cup tie against Red Arrows, with Lebohang Maboe returning to training and travelling with the squad to Durban.

The midfielder took part fully in Amakhosi’s preparations for Friday’s second-leg preliminary round match, giving coach Fernando Da Cruz another option as his side attempt to overturn a 1-0 deficit.

Maboe had been a major doubt after suffering an ankle injury during the second half of Kaizer Chiefs’ recent meeting with Golden Arrows. The setback raised concerns over his immediate availability and disrupted his hopes of returning to the Bafana Bafana set-up.

However, the 30-year-old has since recovered sufficiently to rejoin the squad ahead of a match that will determine whether Kaizer Chiefs progress in the competition.

Maboe unlikely to start

Despite travelling and being involved in preparations, Maboe is unlikely to be named in the starting line-up because he lacks match fitness.

His experience in continental competition could nevertheless prove valuable if Da Cruz calls on him from the bench. Kaizer Chiefs need to score after losing the first meeting 1-0, and Maboe’s previous exposure to high-pressure African fixtures could provide an important outlet during the second leg.

Since returning to the club where he began his development at Naturena, Maboe has established himself as a key part of the team. He has made regular appearances and added an attacking threat in the final third.

His calmness in difficult situations was evident when he converted a powerful penalty against Richards Bay FC. That spot-kick represented his first goal contribution since returning to the club.

Da Cruz has midfield alternatives

Should Maboe be unable to feature, or be restricted to a place among the substitutes, Da Cruz has other midfield options available.

Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko is among those who could step in. He helped cover the position when Maboe was initially forced off with injury and remains a possible solution for the coach.

The match will take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, where Kaizer Chiefs will host Zambia’s Red Arrows in the decisive preliminary round fixture.

With the visitors holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg, Kaizer Chiefs must win to keep their CAF Confederation Cup campaign alive.