Maboe backs Kaizer Chiefs to challenge Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Lebohang Maboe believes the club have the squad, coaching staff and potential to compete with title rivals Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns this season.

Maboe spent seven years under contract at Sundowns, giving him first-hand knowledge of the standards and demands at one of South Africa’s leading clubs. His confidence in Chiefs’ prospects is therefore based on experience of the level they must reach to challenge their biggest rivals.

“I think we’ve got the squad,” maintains Maboe.

“We’ve the team.

“We’ve got the coach to help us do that (compete with Pirates and Sundowns).

“But we need silverware as well to put smiles on our fans’ faces as well.

“Not just our fans but we also want to leave a legacy.

“We want to leave the jersey in a better place.

“So, the only thing right now is being consistent and try to win more games,” says Maboe adding that the training camp in Spain was beneficial.

The midfielder said the camp provided valuable time for the squad to understand Fernando da Cruz’s methods and expectations. He added that the players worked through tactical ideas, video analysis and group discussions during their time in Spain.

“The training we had in Spain gave us a lot of time into how we want to play, video analysis, sit down as a group with the coach trying to explain how he wants us to play.

“I see him (Da Cruz) as a father especially to the young ones who he always encourages to give their best,” says Maboe who has been singled out as being a leader by Fernando da Cruz.

Maboe’s influence has been recognised by Da Cruz, who considers the player an important presence for Chiefs both during matches and away from the pitch. The midfielder has also spoken positively about the support and guidance the coach offers to the younger members of the squad.

Da Cruz believes Maboe’s leadership qualities can continue to benefit the team as the season progresses.

“He is a leader for us on and off the field.

“He has a lot of experience.

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“I’m happy about his performance as he is a natural leader on and off the field.

“I expect that he will continue the way he has done,” says Da Cruz.

For Maboe, the immediate priority is to turn Chiefs’ potential into consistent results. He believes winning more matches and securing silverware will be essential if the club are to bring happiness to their supporters and improve the standing of the famous Chiefs jersey.

The midfielder’s comments amount to a clear challenge to Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, while also placing responsibility on Chiefs to match their ambition with performances and trophies.

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Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images