Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their Betway Premiership clash against Sekhukhune United, with midfielder Siphesihle Ndlovu ruled out due to suspension. Ndlovu received his fourth yellow card of the season during Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld, following a challenge that left Sundowns defender Keanu Cupido with a fractured collarbone. The booking triggers a one-match ban, forcing Amakhosi to reshuffle their midfield for a crucial league fixture.
The suspension arrives amid growing debate over Ndlovu’s aggressive style of play. The midfielder has come under scrutiny following several heated moments in last month’s Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates. However, former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brian Baloyi has come to Ndlovu’s defence, arguing that his commitment has been mistaken for recklessness. Speaking on Soccerbeat, Baloyi compared Ndlovu to club legends Willard Katsande and Tinashe Nengomasha, stating that Chiefs have lacked a combative presence in midfield for seasons and that Ndlovu is finally reviving that identity.
Despite the setback, Ndlovu is expected to return for Chiefs’ final two league matches of the campaign. The timing is particularly challenging as Chiefs will also be without Mduduzi Shabalala, who was injured in the same Sundowns match, for the remaining three fixtures. With midfield depth now tested, attention turns to who will step up to replace Ndlovu’s intensity and drive against Sekhukhune United.