Ntwari waiting for Kruger United debut as club explains goalkeeper selection

Kruger United sporting director Elasto Kapowezha says Fiacre Ntwari’s lack of playing time is the result of technical decisions, with the Rwanda international yet to make an appearance for the club this season.

Ntwari joined the Mpumalanga-based side on loan from Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs, with the agreement running until the end of the current campaign. He arrived with the experience expected of a veteran goalkeeper, but is currently competing for the position of first choice.

The 26-year-old has not played in any match for The Village Boys since his move. Souke Dandijou has retained his place as the club’s starting goalkeeper, while Ntwari has waited for an opportunity to make his debut.

Ntwari was not available for the recent fixture against Amakhosi because of delays in securing his work permit. After receiving the necessary clearance, he was named among the substitutes for the matches against Marumo Gallants FC and Milford FC, although he was not brought on in either game.

Kapowezha rejected any suggestion that Ntwari had been left out of the squad for reasons other than football considerations. He said the goalkeeper had been properly registered and was now available for selection.

“Ntwari has been serving as a deputy to Dandijou. He has been registered with the team and has been considered for selection in the last two matches after obtaining his work permit,” Kapowezha explained toKickOff.

“He is part of the squad and the technical team can select him whenever they determine it necessary.”

The sporting director’s comments confirm that Ntwari remains part of Kruger United’s plans, despite having played zero minutes since arriving on loan. His role at present is to provide cover and competition for Dandijou, rather than to replace him automatically.

The goalkeeper’s delayed availability meant he could not be considered for the match against Amakhosi, but his inclusion on the bench in the two subsequent fixtures indicates that he is now eligible to play. Any future appearance will depend on the judgement of Kruger United’s technical staff.

Ntwari’s loan from Kaizer Chiefs therefore continues without a competitive appearance so far, with the remainder of the season providing him with the chance to challenge for a starting place. For now, Dandijou remains the preferred option in goal, while Ntwari waits for the coaching staff to decide when his experience should be called upon.