Monyane: Chiefs’ Triumph Benefits the “Whole Nation”

In a comment that may not sit well with Orlando Pirates supporters, Thabiso Monyane seems to have taken a jab at his previous team. The right-back, who has recently signed with Kaizer Chiefs, remarked that “when Kaizer Chiefs performs well, the whole nation is pleased.”

Monyane, 25, was elevated by Orlando Pirates prior to the 2019/20 season, where he achieved six domestic cup victories with the team.

Over the course of his tenure, he played 95 matches for the Buccaneers, netting four goals and contributing three assists before departing at the conclusion of last season. He was promptly acquired by Amakhosi and joined them for their pre-season training in the Netherlands.

The Chiefs wrapped up their pre-season tour with a 2-1 defeat to Dutch Eredivisie club FC Twente on Wednesday evening. This season, Chiefs aim to build on their previous successes, including clinching the Nedbank Cup against Monyane’s former team, Pirates, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

“We Are Kaizer Chiefs, A Club With a Rich Legacy”

“I feel hopeful,” Monyane expressed. “We are Kaizer Chiefs, a club with a rich legacy. We witnessed in Holland just how significant the club is, given the tremendous fan support. We aim to meet their expectations.”

He then made a remark that sparked discussion: “If Kaizer Chiefs thrive, the country thrives. We want to bring joy to our supporters.”

In their match against Twente, Amakhosi conceded the first goal just before halftime. Captain Inácio Miguel equalized with a penalty in the second half, but the Dutch side struck again just before the final whistle, sealing their victory.

“We conceded two goals at crucial moments,” Monyane noted. “That was challenging. We exerted so much effort to level the score, only to concede late in the game. Yet, we learn from such experiences. I always say, ‘you never lose, you always learn.’”

Monyane has shown promising initial form during the pre-season in the Netherlands. “I have been warmly welcomed by the coaching staff, players, and personnel, having moved from the other side of Soweto,” he stated. “It has been a refreshing experience, and I am adapting to a new culture.”

The Amakhosi played five friendly fixtures during their pre-season camp in the Netherlands. They will next participate in the Toyota Cup, hosting Ghana’s Asante Kotoko at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, 26 July.