Msimango Eyes Double-Header Win Over KZN Sides
Kaizer Chiefs defender Given Msimango believes that back-to-back Betway Premiership clashes against KZN sides Richards Bay and Royal AM at Polokwane are a blessing in disguise for the team to turn things around.
The Soweto giants ended their three-game winless run in the league when they defeated the Natal Rich Boys 2-1 on Wednesday in the first match of a series of encounters at the Peter Mokaba stadium.
While Msimango is optimistic about the two matches changing their fortunes, he earned a starting berth at the heart of Amakhosi’s defense with off-season signing Miguel Inacio suspended.
The former TS Galaxy captain, who made 30 appearances for Chiefs last season, has seen little game time since the arrival of new coach Nasreddine Nabi at the start of the season, having featured three times in the league so far with two starts.
“I think for me is to remain the professional that I am, I’ve come to a point where I understand that football is seasonal, and there are phases within one’s career and right now I’m in a different phase and I understand that not playing has its toll on a player, ” Msimango said.
“But I need to stay professional and prepared to do my job when called upon and when the opportunity comes Given Msimango will always be ready.”
Despite a lack of on-field action, Msimango says there are visible improvements in the team’s performances compared to last season. He believes the two matches present a perfect opportunity to get back to get their season on track.
“The results haven’t been forthcoming in the league, but I feel like our performances are slowly improving and getting to where the coach wants it to be. I think these coming two games that we’re playing in Polokwane are a blessing in disguise, ” said the Chiefs center-back.
“It will help maintain a certain momentum, the first game on Wednesday and the second on Saturday, so we are looking to turn things around, we’re preparing very well for that, and I think we are ready for the challenge that lies ahead.”
However, the 27-year-old is aware of the threat posed by the two sides regardless of their respective struggles.
“They want to beat us, it’s simple as that, every team that plays against us wants to prove they are better than us, they want to prove they deserve to be where we are, from an individual level players want to be here, ” acknowledged Msimango.
“So, there’s nothing more to analyze or speculate, we know they want to beat us, and they will come with a 100 percent performance. For us, it’s to always maintain a higher standard and performances for ourselves.”
