Kaizer Chiefs welcome back forgotten star

Kaizer Chiefs have battled with injuries and suspensions lately but one man is returning in a timely boost before they meet Sundowns.

Dove returns to fitness, available for selection

30-year-old Mozambican defender Edmilson Doive is fit again, giving manager Nasreddine Nabi a much-needed utility option in his back four. The man born in Xai-Xai is contracted to the club until June 2025 but has the option of an additional year. His versatility and ability to cover at left-back and in central defence could be critical for Nabi. Since moving to Chiefs in August 2022, Dove has made 43 appearances for the club. He also clocked up over 100 outings for Cape Town City.

“Amakhosi coach, Nasreddine Nabi will be delighted to have Edmilson Dove available for this weekend’s Betway Premiership blockbuster against Mamelodi Sundowns, with the Mozambique international fully recovered from injury,” the club confirmed.

Injury update

Three players are currently on the treatment table, which you can see listed below:

• Sibongiseni Mthethwa
• Wandile Duba
• Dillan Solomons

Sirino suspended

After his straight red card in Chiefs’ demoralising 4-1 defeat at SuperSport, Uruguayan playmaker Gaston Sirino will play no part against his old club Sundowns. The Brazilians host Amakhosi on Saturday 01 March at 15:30. Wandile Duba and Ashley Du Preez are long-term absentees while Dillan Solomons and Sibongiseni Mthethwa are also unlikely to feature.

Predicted starting XI vs Sundowns

Bvuma; Blom, Miguel, Dortley, Cross; Cele, Maart; Lilepo, Shabalala, Mmodi; Morris.

Sundowns vs Chiefs H2H stats

You have to go back to April 2021 for Chiefs’ last win over the South African champions in any competition. Ironically, Uruguayan Gaston Sirino was a goal-scorer for Downs on that afternoon. Downs are unbeaten in each of the last NINE H2Hs across all competitions.

Do you think Dove still has a future with Chiefs?

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