Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Nkosingiphile ‘Mshini’ Ngcobo is determined to cement his place in Fernando Da Cruz’s starting line-up as Amakhosi put the finishing touches on their preparations for Sunday’s Toyota Cup showdown against Zimbabwean side Scottland FC.
The 24-year-old playmaker enjoyed only intermittent opportunities under the previous coaching setup, with frequent rotation in midfield limiting his game time.
Now, under new leadership, Ngcobo believes the upcoming season offers a fresh opportunity to establish himself as a regular starter.
‘I’m eager to perform at my highest level’
Speaking ahead of the new campaign, Ngcobo said he was feeling confident and motivated after returning from Kaizer Chiefs’ pre-season training camp in Spain.
“I am feeling good and looking forward to the new season,” he said.
“My aim is always to try harder, do the right things and put all of my energy into the game, so I am eager to perform at my highest level this season.”
Kaizer Chiefs recently wrapped up a demanding training camp in Spain, where they trained in challenging conditions and played three friendly matches against international opposition in preparation for the 2026/27 season.
“The training camp went very well. Personally, I found it to be quite testing, a good challenge. I fought to become a better player, a better person,” Ngcobo explained.
“Also, as a team, it was a great experience. We all got a lot out of the camp, which we will take into the new campaign.”
Familiar faces await
Kaizer Chiefs’ final pre-season test comes against Scottland FC, a side featuring former Amakhosi fan favourites Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat.
While acknowledging the fixture is part of pre-season preparations, Ngcobo expects a competitive contest.
“We know the Toyota Cup is a pre-season event but it’s not an easy game. It’s going to be difficult but we are excited to get out there and play.”
“I’ll be happy to meet Knowledge and Khama in the game. We are ready and it should be a good spectacle for the crowd.”
Message to the Amakhosi faithful
Ngcobo also called on Kaizer Chiefs supporters to turn out in numbers for Sunday’s encounter.
“To all of our football-loving fans, come to the stadium to watch Amakhosi. We have missed you like you have missed us.”
“We are back in action and ready to push for success.”
With Fernando Da Cruz beginning his first full campaign in charge, Sunday’s Toyota Cup clash offers several players, including Ngcobo, an important opportunity to stake their claim for regular places ahead of the start of the Betway Premiership season.
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