Petersen Highlights Chiefs’ Foundation at Netherlands Camp
Kaizer Chiefs’ goalkeeper Brandon Petersen has highlighted the necessity of establishing a solid foundation during their pre-season camp in the Netherlands, preparing for a challenging season ahead.
The Chiefs team traveled to the Netherlands earlier this week, arriving safely on Friday afternoon at their pre-season location in Apeldoorn, where they will remain for the next two weeks.
This rigorous camp will see the Chiefs engage in five training matches during their second week, competing against Vitesse, FC Utrecht, NEC Nijmegen, PEC Zwolle, and FC Twente.
In contrast to recent seasons, the Chiefs will be participating in the CAF Confederation Cup next season, following their Nedbank Cup victory over Orlando Pirates in May. Petersen notably played in that final, a surprising choice over Bruce Bvuma.
“We are in pre-season where we are laying the groundwork; we are sweating and enduring now so we can shine later,” Petersen remarked from the Netherlands.
“We are currently pushing ourselves, testing our limits, and maxing out our bodies, as I mentioned, to establish a solid base for the upcoming season.”
He added, “We have a significant season ahead with CAF and everything else. Therefore, it is crucial for us to work together as a team now, not just physically but also in building that camaraderie and brotherhood.”
“With new players joining, it is essential to welcome them, bond quickly, and form a unified team. When the league starts, we want people to see us as one unit, a collective force that can hit the ground running.”
Winning the Nedbank Cup was a landmark achievement for the Chiefs, representing their first trophy in 11 years. The club last secured a major domestic knockout trophy in 2014, defeating the same Pirates in the MTN8 during the 2014/15 season.
They concluded that season by clinching the league title, achieving a domestic double. However, those glorious days have become a distant memory, with Mamelodi Sundowns and Pirates consistently dominating the trophy cabinet.
Petersen emphasized the significance of the Ke Yona Cup victory, particularly after finishing outside the top eight for two consecutive seasons.
“Yes, lifting the trophy last season was a massive boost for us,” Petersen confirmed.
“It was something we desperately needed. It served as a silver lining for us. I believe that can act as our foundation for the new season, providing us with the motivation we need, as you can see the hunger and determination in the players’ faces, especially after that trophy win.”
“They are eager for more success; they crave it. So, hopefully, that will serve as one of the main building blocks for us this upcoming season, allowing us to use it as a stepping stone to achieve more and secure additional trophies.”