Chiefs Star To Undergo Surgery, Out For Rest Of Season

Kaizer Chiefs have confirmed that midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a broken arm that requires surgery.

Shabalala was on the receiving end of a heavy challenge from Jayden Adams, who was later sent off, during Chiefs’ 1-1 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns in a Betway Premiership match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday.

After the match, Chiefs co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef expressed his frustration over the incident, noting that Shabalala had been pushing hard to break into the South Africa national football team squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala is set for surgery after suffering a broken arm in Wednesday night’s Betway Premiership clash against Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria,” the club said in a statement.

“Shabalala was stretchered off following a tackle late in the first half and rushed to hospital, where scans revealed a fracture to his right humerus, the bone between the shoulder and elbow.

“He remains under medical care ahead of surgery. The expected recovery period is five to six weeks, ruling him out for the remainder of the season with just three matches left to play.

“The club has extended its best wishes, hoping for a successful operation and a speedy full recovery for the young midfielder.”

The matches Shabalala will miss include fixtures against Sekhukhune United on 10 May, AmaZulu FC four days later in Durban, and the final game of the season against Chippa United, also in Durban, on 23 May.

Chiefs also provided an update on Wandile Duba, who missed Wednesday’s clash.

“Meanwhile, striker Wandile Duba was absent from the fixture as he continues to battle a groin injury,” the club said.

“The medical team is working diligently to aid his recovery, with hopes of seeing him back on the pitch soon.”

Following the draw, Chiefs remain third in the Betway Premiership standings with 48 points from 27 matches.