Petersen: MTN8 victory can give Kaizer Chiefs season momentum

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen says winning the MTN8 would provide the platform for a stronger campaign as the club prepare to return to the competition after a two-year absence.

Amakhosi begin their MTN8 campaign against Golden Arrows in the quarter-finals at FNB Stadium on Sunday at 18:00, with Petersen describing the tournament as a major early objective for the club.

Kaizer Chiefs failed to qualify for the previous two editions of the competition, making their return an important moment for the club. The MTN8 requires teams to win four matches to lift the trophy, and Petersen believes that opportunity has increased the squad’s determination to go all the way.

“To be back in the MTN8, I think that’s motivation on its own because we know how it felt to not be part of it, and I think that alone set the tone for us,” said Petersen to the media after the launch on Wednesday.

He said the club’s immediate focus was overcoming the first challenge against Golden Arrows, rather than looking too far ahead in the knockout tournament.

“It shows us that it’s there now. It is within reach for us. It’s four games, and I think the most important one is the weekend. That first hurdle, that first step, and that’s Golden Arrows.

“I think for us it is important to hit the ground running, to make sure that we set the tone for the season. I mean you win this trophy it sets the tone for the season. So I think that’s a thinking for us, that’s a goal to try and go all the way in this tournament and make sure we set a nice foundation for us to carry us for the rest of the campaign.”

The Glamour Boys have also added to their squad as they seek to improve on their previous campaign, with Lingelihle Phili arriving from Stellenbosch.

Petersen has been encouraged by the way the younger player has adapted since joining the club and believes his attitude will help him establish himself at Kaizer Chiefs.

“I think for me to see obviously a younger player like that just come in and settle is a good sign. You know when players usually come into a new team, especially the younger ones, it takes them a bit of a while before they settle.

“I think with him, I watched him and I like the fact that when he stepped onto the field, no one had to motivate and encourage him. He stepped into the field and it is like he has always been there.

“That’s for me a good sign, and that gives me confidence that it is not going to take him a long time to come and do his business.”

Petersen’s comments underline the importance Kaizer Chiefs attach to their return to the MTN8. A strong start against Golden Arrows would give the club the opportunity to build momentum immediately, while victory in the competition would provide what he described as a strong foundation for the remainder of the season.