Kaizer Chiefs will host Siwelele in a crucial Betway Premiership clash at Dobsonville Stadium on Sunday, with Amakhosi looking to return to winning ways and keep pace with their rivals.
The match kicks off at 17:30, with Chiefs currently unbeaten after four league matches.
They have collected two wins and two draws, including a 2-2 draw away to Richards Bay in their previous outing.
The dropped points against Richards Bay will leave Fernando Da Cruz’s side eager to secure maximum points against Siwelele, who have endured a difficult start to the campaign.
How could Chiefs line up against Siwelele?
The defence remains a concern for Amakhosi, particularly at left-back. Chiefs have had to deal with several injuries in the position, with Nkhanyisa Shinga, Paseka Mayo and Cross among the players affected.
However, there is some positive news for Da Cruz, with Cross and Mako having returned to training this week. Their availability could give the coach more options when selecting his starting XI.
In midfield, Chiefs have plenty of options and could make a tactical adjustment. Rather than fielding three defensive-minded midfielders, Da Cruz could opt for a more balanced combination featuring Fernando Da Cruz‘s preferred midfield structure with Lebohang Maboe and Sipheshihle Ndlovu.
The attacking department could also see changes. Against Siwelele, the Kaizer Chiefs coach could add Asanele Velebayi in the attack, with Langelihle Phili out.
With Langelihle Phili sidelined through an ankle injury, Faiz Abrahams is another player who could be handed an opportunity in the attacking areas.
Upfront, Wandile Duba and Asanele Velebayi could start from the wide areas, while Flavio Silva could lead the line if he is deemed fit enough to feature.
Predicted Kaizer Chiefs XI vs Siwelele: Brandon Petersen, Reeve Frosler, Miguel Inacio, Thabo Moloisane, Zitha Kwinika, Siiphesihle Ndlovu, Lebohang Maboe, Mduduzi Shabalala, Wandile Duba, Asanele Velebayi and Flavio Silva.
Chiefs will know that anything less than three points would represent another setback in their push to challenge near the top of the Betway Premiership table.
The fixture will take place at Dobsonville Stadium after the match was moved from Royal Bafokeng Stadium, with the club confirming the venue change earlier this week.
