Kaizer Chiefs defender Paseka Mako returns to South Africa after injury setback in Spain

Kaizer Chiefs defender Paseka Mako has returned to South Africa for treatment after suffering a fractured forearm during the club’s pre-season preparations in Spain.

Mako picked up the injury during Kaizer Chiefs’ friendly encounter against Saudi Arabian side Al Kholood on Tuesday, forcing the defender to cut short his involvement in the team’s training camp and return to South Africa for further medical attention.

The Soweto giants confirmed the development in an official statement, explaining that while preparations under new head coach Fernando da Cruz are progressing as planned, the injury to Mako has disrupted the squad’s build-up ahead of the new season.

“Kaizer Chiefs’ pre-season preparations in Spain, led by coach Fernando Da Cruz, are progressing well as the team gears up for the new campaign,” the club said.

“However, defender Paseka Mako has suffered a setback after fracturing his forearm during Tuesday’s friendly match against Al Khalood.

“Mako has returned to South Africa for medical care and will consult a specialist orthopaedic surgeon for further assessment.”

The 30-year-old defender’s injury comes at an unfortunate time as Kaizer Chiefs continue preparations for the upcoming campaign, with the technical team looking to build fitness, sharpen tactics and assess players ahead of their competitive fixtures.

Mako, who has been an important member of the Kaizer Chiefs squad since joining the club, will now undergo specialist examinations to determine the severity of the injury and the expected recovery period.

The club has not yet provided a timeline for his return, with the outcome of the medical assessment expected to give a clearer indication of when the defender can resume training.

Despite the setback, Kaizer Chiefs remain focused on completing their pre-season programme in Spain. The team is scheduled to conclude their camp on Sunday before returning home to prepare for next week’s Toyota Cup fixture against Zimbabwean outfit Scotland FC.

Coach Fernando da Cruz will hope the rest of the squad remains fit as the club enters the final phase of preparations ahead of what promises to be a demanding season.