Doctor Urges Maturity As Matlou, Shabalala Face Pressure
Kaizer Chiefs legend Doctor Khumalo has offered strong words of guidance to Amakhosi midfielder George Matlou while also encouraging youngster Mduduzi Shabalala, as both players continue to face heavy criticism following separate incidents that sparked debate among supporters.
Khumalo addressed the controversy involving Matlou, which stems from events linked to Saint Eloi Lupopo defender Dieumerci Mukoko.
Mukoko made headlines by provoking Orlando Pirates players when Lupopo faced the Buccaneers in the CAF Champions League second preliminary round, a match Pirates ultimately lost on penalties.
Soon after, Matlou was seen in a video call with Mukoko and was also doing what Mukoko was doing in that game.
Days later, Matlou repeated the same act after Chiefs’ CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round match at Dobsonville.
Since then, Pirates fans have continued speaking negatively about Matlou on social media, and the criticism has not stopped.
Reacting to the matter, Khumalo made it clear his message goes beyond one individual.
“This is a lesson for any player, not particularly for George, but any player,” Khumalo said.
“You don’t focus on what people are saying or doing, you just have to be yourself. Don’t say things that will jeopardize or have a negative image on your brand.
“But I know he is a big boy with a big heart, but you don’t talk like that, and you don’t say things like that.
“You may be playing for different teams, but you need to remain humble and remember that the other brands have a really well-established and caring history of this country, and also produced a lot of big players in this country.”
Khumalo also spoke about Shabalala, who has been criticized by Chiefs fans after missing several clear chances this year.
The young attacker now finds himself under pressure from his own supporters, similar to the public scrutiny Matlou has experienced, though under different circumstances.
“The big thing about this is that I’ve also been there, I have faced that even though I was not attacked,” Khumalo added.
“But these are the footballing problems that you, as a footballer, need to understand the trauma.
“You don’t need to lose your composure and focus, you’re who you are because of God, because he gave you a talent and the skills.
“So, you’re going to this phase, but everything will be sorted, and if the game against Zamalek, he becomes a hero, that’s when things will say the beginning of good things has started.
“So, don’t listen, look, or feel bad about being criticized. Criticism actually prepares you to perform because if you’re not criticised, then you will be in a better environment, and when you’re in a better environment, you won’t perform.”
Shabalala will have an immediate chance to respond when Amakhosi take on Egyptian giants Zamalek on Sunday in the final CAF Confederation Cup group stage match, where a draw will be enough to send Chiefs through to the quarterfinals.
