Kaizer Chiefs striker Ashley Du Preez says his match-winning goal against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup semi-final has given him a significant boost of motivation ahead of the remaining games.

Chiefs will now face big rivals Orlando Pirates in the final of the Ke Yona Cup at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 May.   

Du Preez, who has now scored five goals in all competitions this season, expressed his delight and motivation from scoring the crucial goal.

“Yes, that goal gives me motivation to do more because, as a striker, that’s what you want to do,” Du Preez said.

“I’ve been coming on as a sub, and against Magesi, I also did that because it’s not easy to come from the bench and score the winning goal.”

Du Preez’ determination to prove himself as a starting player is evident in his words: “For me, it’s just to prove week-in-week-out that I want to be in the starting eleven because each and every player wants to be in the starting eleven.”

The victory over Sundowns has not only boosted the team’s morale but also marked a significant milestone for the club.

Du Preez reflected on the importance of this win, stating, “Thinking about that goal against Mamelodi Sundowns is an amazing feeling for us as a club and for myself as well.”

He emphasized his commitment to helping the team, saying, “For me, it’s to keep pushing no matter how much time I’m given, it’s just to help the team at the end of the day.”

Du Preez also weighed in on CAF President Patrice Motsepe’s recent statement that South African football needs a strong Kaizer Chiefs.

“We are the biggest team in Africa, so every team would like to face us,” he said confidently.

The former Stellenbosch attacker also expressed his excitement about competing in the CAF competitions alongside other top South African teams like Stellenbosch, Orlando Pirates, and Sundowns.

“We want to compete on the highest level… Sundowns have been there and doing a great job in the competition,” Du Preez said.

“I think for the people who would love to see Chiefs also in that space, I’m sure they will see us, and every team would like to face Chiefs, and fans and us will be so happy. So, for us to be in that competition, African football would be better.”

Amakhosi are now set to face Marumo Gallants on their next league game at FNB Stadium on Saturday [15:00]. The last time these two rivals faced each other, the game ended 2-1 in favor of Nassredine Nabi’s side last year.