Kaizer Chiefs’ Ngcobo under pressure after 2-0 Betway Premiership win

Kaizer Chiefs beat Sekhukhune 2-0 to maintain their perfect start to the Betway Premiership campaign. Mduduzi Shabalala and Luke Baartman scored in the second half, with Baartman putting Chiefs ahead in the 63rd minute before Shabalala sealed the win in the 84th.

The result has sharpened attention on Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, whose place in the Chiefs team is now under scrutiny. The 26-year-old midfielder was not included in the squad for the Sekhukhune match, after featuring in the opening games of the season.

Ngcobo had come on as a substitute against Kruger United before starting the 0-1 loss to Golden Arrows. His absence from the victory over Sekhukhune followed criticism from Chiefs supporters, who have questioned his performances and contribution to the side.

The midfielder has also endured several injury-hit seasons at Naturena. Although he is fit again and has been involved at the beginning of the campaign, his recent selection pattern has placed his position under pressure while younger players have strengthened their claims.

Baartman, 20, has started all three of Chiefs’ matches across competitions this season and scored against Sekhukhune. His regular involvement gives the forward an increasingly important role in the team, while Shabalala’s goal from the bench added another boost to Chiefs’ attacking options.

Chiefs’ strong league form means the early selection questions are developing within a winning campaign rather than after a poor start. Their next test is against Mamelodi Sundowns on Saturday, 15 August, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.