Majoro backs Kaizer Chiefs to make MTN8 statement against Golden Arrows

Former Kaizer Chiefs forward Lehlohonolo Majoro believes the club’s opening Betway Premiership victory and improved squad depth have created the platform for Amakhosi to make a statement in their MTN8 quarter-final against Golden Arrows.

Kaizer Chiefs welcome Golden Arrows to FNB Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00, as they return to the competition after missing out for the past two seasons.

“It is very important for Kaizer Chiefs to start the MTN8 with a bang against Golden Arrows, especially because they haven’t been in the competition for the past two seasons,” Majoro told IOL in an exclusive interview.

Chiefs began their league campaign with a 3-1 victory over newly-promoted Kruger United last weekend. The result has given the club confidence as they prepare for their first cup match of the season, while new coach and players continue to establish themselves.

“Having won their first match of the season in the league must have given them a boost of confidence and a sense of beliefespecially with a new coach in the camp. Everyone wants to impress, raise their hand, and showcase their talent.”

Majoro, 39, made more than 50 appearances for Kaizer Chiefs during his playing career. He is particularly encouraged by the attacking options available to the club, pointing to the impact of Wandile Duba after the forward came off the bench and scored twice against Kruger United.

“We saw over the weekend when they won 3–1 that Wandile Duba came off the bench and scored two quick goals to show he should also be counted among the starters.

“That gives a team of Kaizer Chiefs’ caliber real options and depth. When you have a starter who scores goals and someone on the bench who can come in and do the same, it gives the coach ammunition and the belief that you can win every game you play.”

Majoro said the competition for places could prove important during a demanding campaign. The presence of players capable of influencing matches from the bench gives the coach alternatives and increases the team’s belief that it can challenge in every fixture.

Golden Arrows will arrive at FNB Stadium after drawing their opening match. Their preparations have also been affected by the departure of coach Manqoba Mngqithi at the end of June.

Majoro warned that Arrows should not be underestimated, particularly in a cup competition where teams can raise their performance against more prominent opponents.

“Golden Arrows are no pushovers. Drawing their first match isn’t a bad start, but it’s not a great start either. We know that teams always turn up and showcase their talent when playing against the so-called big teams.

“With Arrows losing their coach, Manqoba Mngqithi, I don’t know what impact that will have on the playerssometimes players panic a bit when they lose a coach they’ve been with for a season or two. We will have to wait and see, but it remains very important for Kaizer Chiefs to showcase their intent in this MTN8 game.”

For Kaizer Chiefs, victory would provide an early indication of their ambitions in the MTN8 and build on the momentum created by last weekend’s league win. Majoro believes Sunday’s fixture offers Amakhosi an opportunity to establish the tone for what could become a significant season.