kaizer chiefs could be the proud home of as many as four Bafana Bafana stars pretty soon. Let’s take a look.
Dortley is a fast learner
Rushwin Dortley is already the proud owner of two Bafana Bafana caps. That number will grow as Chiefs’ new central defensive signing from Cape Town Spurs has looked assured and classy at the highest level. Amakhosi spent R10 million on the player so clearly there’s a lot of faith and belief there. Meanwhile, youngsters Mduduzi Shabalala and Mfundo Vilakazi have made impressive, goal-scoring starts to the season. Both were on target in their opening-day win over Marumo Gallants. If they keep this up, a call for Bafana could be on the horizon.
Blom is back for a season
Njabulo Blom has won only a single cap for his country, and that was way back in September 2021 against Ghana when he got 13 minutes as a substitute. He’s been in the international wilderness ever since, playing his club football in the United States with MLS side St. Louis City since the end of 2022. Just under three years is a long time in football. If this season-long loan spell goes well for the 24-year-old, he could force his way back into Hugo Broos’ plans. It’s a low-risk move by Chiefs, and it’s certainly one that has appeased the fans. He started against AmaZulu and could worm his way back into the Bafana setup now he’s closer to home for at least a season. Given Msimango could also be an outside bet to get back into the Bafana fold.
Mdu is ready to shine
20-year-old Mduduzi Shabalala has been part of the furniture at Naturena for some time. 2023-2024 was a stop-start affair for the talented star, but 2024-2025 looks like a real breakout season. He scored on the opening day against Gallants and has started both league games in the fabled number 10 role this term. The trust from the board and management is there, now he must embrace it.
Next three fixtures for Chiefs
- SuperSport United – Saturday, October 26, Lucas Moripe Stadium, 17:30
- Magesi FC – Wednesday, October 30, Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, 19:30
- Royal AM – Sunday, November 9 – FNB Stadium, 17:30