Kaizer Chiefs: Biggest WINNERS and LOSERS of 2023

Kaizer Chiefs have had a bit of a mixed year. Let’s assess the winners and losers of 2023 with time for a few to redeem themselves…

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Kaizer Chiefs: Biggest winners and losers of 2023

Winners

Edson Castillo

Although he’s been out of the side in recent weeks, the Venezuelan schemer has quickly become a fan favourite among Amakosi fans. He’s also scored a few crucial goals from deep-lying midfield areas. He should become even more of an asset with a season of SA football under his belt.

ICYMI: Amakhosi welcome back two stars for Richards Bay clash

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Thatayaone Ditlhokwe

Blessed with natural leadership and versatility, the 25-year-old Botswana skipper has become a mainstay in the Chiefs defence. We might be about to learn exactly how important he is with a two-month spell on the sidelines coming up.

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Ashley Du Preez

Often criticized last season for his wastefulness in front of goal, the former Stellies man has proved his worth and versatility in the Chiefs attack this term. He’s been absent since October 3rd, so a return to action against Richards Bay on Saturday will be a welcome sight for fans and manager alike.

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Spiwe Given Msimango

An ever-present for TS Galaxy in his final campaign for the Rockets, Msimango has immediately become a key pillar of the Chiefs defence. If he stays fit, they have a better chance of keeping clean sheets. He’ll be even more crucial now that his new partnership with Ditlhokwe will be broken up because of the Botswana man’s dislocated shoulder.

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Losers

Jasond Gonzalez

The colourfully named Efmamjjasond Gonzalez has failed to get going so far. He hasn’t scored a single goal in Chiefs colours, and rumours persist that the club might cut short his one-season loan stay.

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Ranga Chivaviro

The 30-year-old former Gallants man was prolific last term, scoring 15 goals across all competitions, but 2023-24 has been a struggle for him so far. with the burly frontman scoring just once in the league this term, against Cape Town Spurs. Amakhosi have now scored 14 goals from 14 games in the league, and a goal a game isn’t a healthy enough average for a side of this stature as we approach the halfway mark of the campaign.

TRANSFERS: Who’s flown and who’s flopped?

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Itumeleng Khune

Embroiled in a scandal, suspended from all club-related activities and on the longest run without a clean sheet in his entire career, Itu Khune has certainly had better years. To be fair, none of Amakhosi’s senior goalkeepers have covered themselves in glory this season and it’s a clear area for the club to improve.

REVEALED: The position Khune played at the start of his Chiefs career

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Let us know who your biggest winners and losers have been this year, Amakhosi fans.

Meanwhile, hit up James Freemantle for more insights, news, views and commentary.

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