New star proves his worth in Kaizer Chiefs midfield

Lebohang Maboe has emerged as a key figure in Kaizer Chiefs’ midfield this season, but former Amakhosi maestro Frank “Disco” Makua warns the team still faces creativity challenges.

Maboe was signed by Amakhosi as a free agent from Sundowns, and after missing the early season due to fitness issues, he has added control and composure to the team.

The Heidelberg-born star, whose father Sydwel played for Orlando Pirates, recovered from a long injury lay-off just in time to replace the newly injured Sibongiseni Mthethwa.

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Maboe secured a regular starting role, notably earning a Man of the Match award in January 2026 for his performance against Marumo Gallants.

Beyond domestic league experience, Maboe brought essential experience to the club’s continental efforts, recently surpassing 50 appearances in CAF competitions.

Makua told Soccer Laduma: “I think he’s got experience, he started as a winger, now I think he’s got experience, he can play there as the anchor-man.

The new Kaizer Chiefs star transitioned into a leadership figure within the squad, with his “winning mentality” and high work rate helping to stabilise the team during high-pressure matches.

“For me, he fits in well there, he can play. They complement each other with (Siphesihle) Ndlovu, so far I’m impressed with their form. But obviously playing for Kaizer Chiefs we need players who can give strikers good passes, so that they can finish.”

However, the former Amakhosi star highlighted a lingering problem in the middle of the park. Makua explained that creating chances has become a problem for Kaizer Chiefs, particularly in the middle of the park.

He added that, in the past, the club had players who could make runs and deliver key passes to support the strikers, but that ability now appears to be lacking.

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