Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye believes Golden Arrows will eliminate his former club from the MTN8 in Sunday’s quarter-final.
Kaizer Chiefs are returning to the competition after missing the previous two editions and will host Golden Arrows on Sunday afternoon. A win would move Amakhosi closer to the trophy, which they last lifted 12 years ago.
However, Khanye remains unconvinced by Chiefs despite their positive start to the new season. They opened their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Kruger United last weekend, but the former winger expects them to fall short against Arrows.
“For me, Chiefs will be eliminated from the tournament,” Khanye said.
The outspoken analyst predicted a closely contested match and suggested extra-time could be required to decide the tie.
“The tournament for them is unfortunately eight teams. I don’t predict a heavy score, but there is also a possibility of extra-time in this game. I think Chiefs will be eliminated if we face reality.
“Arrows will beat Chiefs, but they will narrowly edge them. I predict Arrows to win this game, but it’s going to be a tough match,” he told iDiski TV.
The match is part of the MTN8 quarter-final stage, with Kaizer Chiefs seeking to make up for their absence from the previous two editions of the competition. Their opponents, Golden Arrows, will attempt to take advantage of Khanye’s doubts and reach the next round with a win away from home.
Khanye has also backed defending champions Orlando Pirates to overcome Durban City in the other quarter-final scheduled for Saturday afternoon.
The former Kaizer Chiefs player believes Orlando Pirates have sufficient quality to retain the trophy, having won the MTN8 four times in a row. He also pointed to the club’s strong start to the season and its efforts to strengthen the squad after losing Relebohile Mofokeng.
“Pirates are favourites,” Khanye said ahead of the MTN8 clash with City.
“They haven’t changed their team a lot. Even though they lost their star player Relebohile Mofokeng, they beefed up their squad. I know Sundowns are a threat to any team, but there’s something we call momentum. Pirates started the season very well.
“I think, for me, Pirates will defend the MTN8. It’s straightforward,” he said.
Orlando Pirates and Durban City will meet in Soweto on Saturday afternoon, before Kaizer Chiefs welcome Golden Arrows on Sunday.
The MTN8 is contested by eight teams, with the quarter-finals providing the opening stage of the competition. Chiefs are aiming to win the trophy for the first time in 12 years, while Pirates are seeking to continue their run of four consecutive triumphs.
