Ben Youssef Praises Mayo’s Debut Performance
Kaizer Chiefs coach Khalil Ben Youssef was impressed with Khanyisa Mayo’s debut performance in their 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants at FNB Stadium on Wednesday.
Mayo, who recently joined the Phefeni Glamour Boys on loan from Algerian giants CR Belouizdad, scored from close range on his debut and provided several scoring opportunities for his teammates against a Gallants side.
“Regarding Khanyisa Mayo, he was waiting for his paperwork to be done, and now he is available to play with us in the PSL,” Ben Youssef said.
“But we knew even before the game that physically he was not ready to play for 90 minutes, and it was prepared before the game that we would play him between 50 and 60 minutes.”
The former Cape Town City striker was substituted early in the 59th minute by Glody Lilepo, a decision that Ben Youssef had planned before the game.
Despite the early substitution, Ben Youssef was pleased with Mayo’s performance.
“I think the performance of Mayo in his first start for the team was good. He performed very well,” he stated.
“He gave us a lot of opportunities to score, and he scored the first goal.
“We need more from Mayo because we know his quality and we know what he can do for the team as well; what he brings to the team.”
According to Ben Youssef, the game against Bahlabane Ba Ntwa was crucial for Amakhosi, who were looking to bounce back from disappointing losses against Sekhukhune United and Kabuscorp.
“We discussed before the game about the importance of this game to bring back the confidence of the team,” Ben Youssef added.
“Our main objective was to go back to the second or first position on the log, and the performance was good, but then, unfortunately, the results.
“I think we’re going to continue with the work going forward, and this game is now finished, so we have to think about the next game.”
Ben Youssef emphasized the importance of winning each game, saying, “For us this season every game is a cup final, so we need to win every game, then the results will tell us whether we’re better.”
With a break in the league this weekend, Amakhosi will focus on their CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round second leg against Angolan giants Kabuscorp at FNB Stadium.
