Mduduzi Shabalala is one of the finest prospects to come out of Naturena in some time. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter.
It’s ‘Mdu or Die’ time for Kaizer Chiefs in the 117th Soweto Derby
Mduduzi Shabalala is only 19 but there’s already huge hype around the Kaizer Chiefs star. Here’s why he can handle the Soweto Derby pressure.
Mduduzi Shabalala is one of the finest prospects to come out of Naturena in some time. Image: @kaizerchiefs / Twitter.
Mduduzi Shabalala has only just turned 19 but he’s already got huge pressure on his shoulders at Kaizer Chiefs. The Soweto Derby calls for big personalities and Mdu certainly has that.
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The young attacker has become a first-team regular in recent months under Arthur Zwane. Mdu looks set to start the Soweto Derby in the ‘number 10’ position. He scored in the 3-2 defeat to Golden Arrows and sounds eager to make a big difference against Pirates. 30-year-old Keagan Dolly has been underwhelming at best while Shabalala has provided a glimpse into Amakhosi’s bright future.
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Mdu penned a new three-year deal with Chiefs back in June which is a promising sign of his intentions. A recent Instagram post also made his allegiances clear.
“I am proud to wear the gold and black this season. You are in my heart Amakhosi Family. I am part of the club’s Fresh Revival and I am dedicated to the badge.”
Could the 117th Soweto Derby be the day when Mdu Shabalala truly announces himself on the grand stage? He certainly has the talent to be the catalyst for a huge turnaround at the club. It’s ‘Mdu or die’ time and young Shabalala has the tools to step up. It will be his very first taste of this grand occasion as a senior player.
Chiefs vs Pirates kicks off on Saturday at 15:30.
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For more insights, analysis and love for the beautiful game, hit up James Freemantle.
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