High hopes as Amakhosi reach out to loyal fans
THE sky looked gloomy for the better part of the afternoon, only starting to clear when the visionary who made the day possible took the stage.
There wouldn’t have been a Kaizer Chiefs opening day at the FNB Stadium yesterday were it not for Kaizer Motaung, the founder of the biggest club in the land. So having the heavens co-operate as Motaung started speaking to supporters attending the family day was only befitting.
Chiefs are looking to reclaim their glory days in South African football following a seven-year drought, a process that started with the appointment of stalwart Arthur Zwane as the new coach. His appointment was backed by a signing spree this past winter – ahead of the new season – with a host of youngsters added to the squad.
However, Chiefs knew that they’d have to enter the new season with the backing of their supporters, who have stood beside them through thick and thin. So the club called a family day at the FNB Stadium yesterday.
The Chiefs faithful, young and old, although not to the expected capacity, graced the event wearing the gold and black regalia of their beloved Amakhosi.
The day went according to plan, with the entire squad present to rub shoulders and mingle with fans – for the first time in two years, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic.
As Chiefs players and the technical team were introduced on the podium, they were met with a round of applause from the blissful supporters.
Zwane, whose first name is Jabulani, will hope to bring back smiles to the faces of millions of Chiefs fans. Translated, his name means “Be Happy”. He sang “Masibe Happy Makhosi” to the crowd. That needed no further translation, especially with everyone knowing it has been seven years since the club won any silverware.
Zwane, who has been at the club for more than 22 years, knows the club’s culture like the back of his hand. And it’s up to him to reclaim the glory days.
The club has backed him, signing youngsters such as Ashley du Preez, Zitha Kwinika and Kamohelo Mahlatsi, who are in their early 20s.
Mduduzi Shabalala, 18, has also been promoted from the reserves ahead of the new season, following in the footsteps of players such as Nkosingiphile Ngcobo.
But the day, which was clearly approved by the heavens, belonged to Motaung, the man who founded the team 52 years ago, at the age of 25.