Kaizer Chiefs have been dealt an injury setback during their pre-season tour of Spain after defender Paseka Mako fractured his forearm in Tuesday’s friendly against Saudi Pro League side Al-Kholood.
The unfortunate injury comes as Amakhosi continue their preparations for the 2026/27 season under new head coach Fernando Da Cruz, who is using the European tour to fine-tune his squad ahead of the new campaign.
Following the injury, Mako has returned to South Africa, where he will undergo further assessment by a specialist orthopaedic surgeon. The experienced left-back is expected to rejoin the squad in the coming weeks once his recovery is underway.
Despite Mako’s setback, there is positive news for Chiefs supporters.
Several players who ended last season on the sidelines have returned to full training and are pushing to impress Da Cruz as competition for places intensifies ahead of the new season.
Kaizer Chiefs will conclude their pre-season tour with a challenging fixture against La Liga side Elche on Saturday, providing another valuable opportunity for the squad to build match fitness and tactical cohesion.
The team will then return to South Africa, where Da Cruz will take charge of his first match on home soil when Amakhosi face Scottland FC of Zimbabwe in the Toyota Cup at Rustenburg on 26 July.
With the new Betway Premiership season fast approaching, Chiefs will be hoping to finish their Spanish tour on a positive note while avoiding any further injury concerns.
About the Author
