Soccer Laduma 1496: Chiefs’ midfield concerns and Rhulani Mokwena interview lead new edition

The 1496th edition of Soccer Laduma, available from Thursday, 15th October 2026, examines Kaizer Chiefs’ midfield options ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup campaign, while also featuring an extensive interview with Rhulani Mokwena.

Chiefs face midfield dilemma

Fernando Da Cruz has a major selection problem in central midfield after confirming that Thabo Cele is “not a part of his plans”. Kaizer Chiefs entered the season with Adolf Mtasingwa as their only midfield reinforcement, despite their four principal central midfielders all being in their late 20s or early 30s.

With the campaign potentially extending beyond 40 matches, the edition investigates why Amakhosi have allowed themselves to become so short of options. It also considers whether their season may depend on Lebohang Maboe recovering from injury and the club keeping its remaining midfielders fit throughout the campaign.

Mokwena reflects on North African journey

Rhulani Mokwena has continued his successful spell in North African football with Pyramids FC after previous stints at Wydad Casablanca and MC Alger.

In an interview with the South African Football Journalists Association (SAFJA), the 39-year-old discusses his coaching journey, the rivalries that define football in North Africa and his lasting links with Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mokwena also explains the philosophies behind his career, the role failure has played in his development and why he believes South African football is producing its next golden generation.

Saleng’s return at Sundowns examined

Monnapule Saleng’s situation at Mamelodi Sundowns is also explored after signs of progress following an uncertain period at the club.

The former Orlando Pirates winger, who was exiled early in the season, has played in friendly matches and returned to first-team training at Chloorkop. He travelled to Durban for the MTN8 final but was not included in the matchday squad, although his presence raised hopes of a return to competitive action.

More from issue 1496

Oupa Manyisa looks back on a nine-season spell with Orlando Pirates, a period in which the Soweto club won back-to-back domestic trebles. He recalls his introduction to professional football, the opportunity that took him to the Buccaneers, trophy successes, disappointment in continental competition and his eventual transfer to Mamelodi Sundowns.

Manyisa also discusses his relationship with the Pirates supporters, his time at Sundowns and his life after professional football, including his continued involvement in the game through Ditlhake Masters.

An international feature assesses the opening round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, examining administrative errors, player mutinies, poor pitches and deteriorating infrastructure. It also considers the statement victories, changing power balance and emerging generation shaping the race to East Africa.

The Revolving Column comes from former Banyana Banyana striker Mpumi Nyandeni, who writes about the Olympic qualifiers. Siyagobhoza reports Belgian interest in Sebelebele, continued Wydad interest in Mokwana and a free-transfer masterstroke by Sundowns.