Kaizer Chiefs lose talented youngster?

Kaizer Chiefs attacker Luke Baartman could be set for a spell on the sidelines after getting hurt while playing for South Africa’s U23 side.

Baartman injured for South Africa U23

Versatile 20-year-old attacker Luke Baartman is a serious doubt for Chiefs’ next Betway Premiership match after suffering a thigh injury for South Africa’s U23 side against Algeria. Baartman has been an ever-present for Chiefs this term, appearing in all seven league outings.

🚨 | 𝗕𝗔𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗡 𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗖𝗘𝗗 𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗦𝗔 𝗨𝟮𝟯:

Luke Baartman could not continue for South Africa U23 against Algeria and was replaced just before half-time.

🔹 SAFA reported that Baartman was in “a state of bother” before the change.
🔹 Let’s hope it is nothing… pic.twitter.com/v1UbLkhhOP

— CHIEFS CENTRAL (@ChiefsCentralZA) October 4, 2026

Chiefs could get other attackers back soon

Kaizer Chiefs are dealing with a long list of injuries, but several players are on the comeback trail. Flavio da Silva is back in training alongside Khanyisa Mayo, who has recovered after a hernia operation. 21-year-old winger Langelihle Phili is also nearing a return after a serious ankle injury. Phili could return for the club’s home match against Stellenbosch on Tuesday 13 October.

Mendes is the next big thing at Kaizer Chiefs

Meanwhile, Chiefs Diski Challenge coach Vela Khumalo believes 18-year-old sensation Steven Mendes already possesses the maturity and raw ability to represent the Chiefs first team. Mendes won the Golden Boot at the recent COSAFA U20 tournament in Maputo, Mozambique. Mendes, nominally a midfielder, was converted into a striker for the event. He’s nicknamed ‘Stevie G’ by some teammates. According to local reports, MLS side Chicago Fire are sniffing around the talented teenager.

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