Kaizer Chiefs’ Ngcobo fit again as future remains uncertain in PSL

Nkosingiphile Ngcobo is fit again and back in the Kaizer Chiefs squad, but questions remain over his long-term future at the club. Chiefs are second in the 2026 South African Premier Soccer League with seven points from three matches, having won two and drawn one.

Ngcobo was an unused substitute when Chiefs drew 1-1 with Mamelodi Sundowns in their most recent league match. His return to availability has therefore not yet resulted in playing time, leaving his position in the team unclear as the club considers its options.

The midfielder’s injury record has restricted his involvement in recent seasons. He made 25 league appearances and scored four goals in 2020-21, his most productive campaign for appearances. His league outings then fell to 16 in 2021-22, 13 in 2022-23, 12 in 2023-24 and 11 in 2024-25.

There was some improvement last season, when Ngcobo played 16 league matches. However, he has not scored more than twice in a season since 2021, and his combined total across the last three Betway Premiership campaigns is two goals. Those figures add to the uncertainty surrounding the club’s decision on his future, despite his latest return to fitness.

Chiefs have started the new league campaign unbeaten and have scored six goals while conceding two. Their recent results include a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United and a 3-1 victory away to Kruger United, although they also lost 0-1 to Golden Arrows before the Sundowns draw. They sit two points below Chiefs’ tally at the same stage last season, when the club had won its opening three league matches.

The next opportunity for Ngcobo to make his return on the pitch comes on 26 August, when Kaizer Chiefs visit Richards Bay in the PSL. The match is scheduled for 19:30.