SuperSport United left-back Lyle Lakay has acknowledged the transformation taking place at Kaizer Chiefs under the guidance of new coach Nareddine Nabi and their recent signings, including Gaston Sirino, Lakay’s former teammate at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Gavin Hunt’s men were paired in the Carling Black Label Cup draw against Chiefs in the round of 16 clash and the match will take place in two weeks’ time before meeting in another Betway Premiership on 26 October.

Amakhosi appear to be in clear waters, having won two of their three league matches this season under new coach Nasreddine Nabi. They also went big in the market to sign new players and some of those players are settling in well at the Soweto Giants, which has led to Lakay wary of them ahead of those two clashes. 

“It’s a different Kaizer Chiefs. I think they rejuvenated with the new coach, the new signings. I know with Gaston, he’s my former teammate, the quality that he brings into the team. I think it’s evident in the style of play,” Lakay added.

Lakay, who won the Carling Cup with Sundowns in 2019, highlighted the excitement surrounding the fixture.

“It’s a good draw. It’s always an exciting game; SuperSport and Chiefs. If you remember last year, we played them twice and there were always goals involved. We are looking forward to it. Another thing, we are playing them in the league also. We played them in a friendly before, we know what to expect and what to do on the day,” Lakay said

SuperSport, despite being a traditionally competitive side, have faced struggles in front of goal this season. In their first four league games, they have managed just one goal while conceding three. Injuries to key players like veteran striker Bradley Grobler and midfielder Grant Magerman have also hindered the team’s progress. 

Grobler was sidelined during the MTN8 clash against Orlando Pirates, while Magerman sustained an injury during a friendly match against Chiefs

Despite these challenges, Lakay believes in the squad’s depth and urges other players to rise to the occasion.

“As professional footballers, even though there are injuries, we have to step up when needed. We have a few senior players. Majority of the players that are out are senior players and players we all know with the quality that they have,  said the 33-year-old defender.

“But having said that, it’s an opportunity for other guys to up their game and deliver for the team.”