He’s still only 19 but Manqoba Ozoemena could have a massive future in the Kaizer Chiefs first team. What’s he all about?
Diski Challenge team is looking good
Vela Khumalo’s side played out a 0-0 draw with Stellenbosch to stay third on the table with an identical record to Cape Town City. Chiefs have 13 points from six matches and can leapfrog leaders STellenbosch if they win their game in hand. So far the reserve side has picked up wins against Goldwn Arrows, Chippa, Sekhukhune and Magesi. Their only defeat of the campaign so far was against a talented SuperSport side.
Ozoemena might need to move away temporarily to secure his future
Chiefs are negotiating a potential loan deal for the teenage midfield maestro with several top-flight clubs. The club wants the 19-year-old to play valuable first-team minutes at the highest level so that he’s ready to step into the Amakhosi senior setup in 2025-2026. Ozoemena impressed during the pre-season tour of Turkey to the extent that the club has prepared a five-year contract extension for him.
What type of player is Ozoemena?
Via Sowetan:
“The 19-year-old central midfielder is physically strong, energetic, and tactically intelligent, who’s admired for his ball-winning abilities, work rate, and vision, as well as his solid technique and reliable passing.”
Obrigado and Mdu showing the way
Meanwhile, youngsters Mduduzi Shabalala and Mfundo Vilakazi have made impressive, goal-scoring starts to the season. Both were on target in their opening-day win over Marumo Gallants. Shabalala has been entrusted with the number 10 role for the first team, starting there in all three matches so far. This talented duo are two of the most prominent names to come through the ranks at Naturena and shine for the DDC side. Now, they’re fully-fledged, important regulars in the senior setup. Is Ozoemena the next talented DDC player to make a breakthrough?
Kaizer Chiefs must wait for their next Betway Premiership match
Amakhosi, meanwhile, have just under two weeks to wait until their next Betway Premiership fixture. They’ve started this campaign in decent fashion, with two wins from three, and a recent defeat to Sundowns. Their goal, of course, will be to compete for next season’s MTN8 at a minimum. Here are their next few fixtures:
- SuperSport United – Saturday, October 26, Lucas Moripe Stadium, 17:30
- Magesi FC – Wednesday, October 30, Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, 19:30
- Royal AM – Sunday, November 9 – FNB Stadium, 17:30
Is Ozoemena going to shine in the first team next season?
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