Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thulani Mabaso could make his first-team debut of the season when Amakhosi host Stellenbosch FC on Tuesday evening.
The 22-year-old defensive midfielder has been training with the senior team after making his first competitive appearance since injury in the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) Soweto derby victory.
Mabaso had been sidelined for several months after suffering a long-term injury that ruled him out during the closing stages of the 2025/26 season.
His return to competitive action at DDC level is a positive development for Chiefs, with the midfielder now edging closer to a possible return to the first team.
However, it remains to be seen whether he will feature against Stellenbosch, with head coach Fernando Da Cruz keeping his plans under wraps.
Kaizer Chiefs coach drops hint on Mabaso’s possible return
Chiefs could be without several key players for Tuesday’s encounter, including Lebohang Maboe, Adolf Mtasingwa, Sphesihle Ndlovu, Langelihle Phili and Brandon Petersen.
Da Cruz will be eager to secure maximum points at home as Amakhosi look to revive their Betway Premiership title challenge.
Speaking ahead of the match, the Chiefs coach hinted that he had a plan for the encounter but declined to reveal his selection decisions.
“We prepared something for tomorrow. You will see tomorrow. The most important is to be focused on the players available,” he said.
When asked whether Mabaso could be part of the surprise when Chiefs plau, Da Cruz remained tight-lipped.
“You will see tomorrow.”
Chiefs Pleased With Mabaso’s Progress
Earlier this month, Kaizer Chiefs sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr expressed his satisfaction with the midfielder’s recovery and return to competitive football.
“We were also happy to see senior team midfielder Thulani Mabaso play his first competitive match since picking up an injury a few months ago. His return means he is getting closer to match readiness for the first team,” Motaung Jr told the Chiefs media department.
Mabaso’s progress comes at a crucial stage of the season as Chiefs seek consistency in their push for the league title.
Whether the midfielder gets the nod against Stellenbosch remains to be seen, but his return to training with the senior squad suggests he is moving closer to a first-team opportunity.