Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz is reportedly looking to strengthen his goalkeeping department, with the coach revealing in his interview yesterday that he would like the club to consider bringing in a goalkeeper from Nigeria.
The comments come after Chiefs’ 2-2 draw against Richards Bay, a match in which goalkeeper Brandon Petersen came under heavy scrutiny following a costly mistake that contributed to the opening goal. Da Cruz has previously shown confidence in Petersen, but the latest situation appears to have encouraged the coach to look at adding more competition and experience to the position.
According to the comments attributed to Da Cruz, the intention is not necessarily to replace Petersen, but rather to bring in another goalkeeper who can work alongside him and provide professional competition.
The coach is understood to want someone who can “assist Petersen professionally” — a goalkeeper capable of pushing him in training, sharing experience and helping improve the overall standards within the goalkeeping department.
One Nigerian option who could fit the profile is Mustapha Lawal, who became a free agent after his contract with Shooting Stars expired. Lawal enjoyed an impressive campaign and attracted interest from several clubs after helping Shooting Stars finish third in the Nigeria Premier Football League. (punchng.com)
There is currently no confirmed indication that Lawal is a Kaizer Chiefs target, so his name should be viewed only as a potential example of the type of goalkeeper available in the Nigerian market.
Chiefs already strengthened their goalkeeping department by signing Renaldo Leaner this window, while Fiacre Ntwari was sent on loan to Kruger United. (kaizerchiefs.com)
Da Cruz’s reported interest in another goalkeeper could therefore signal his desire to create genuine competition for places. Petersen remains an experienced member of the squad, but the coach appears determined to ensure that every position has sufficient depth and professional competition.
For Chiefs, the priority will be finding a goalkeeper who can challenge, support and improve the existing options rather than simply adding another name to the squad.
Leave a Reply