Thulani Mabaso has taken a significant step towards a Kaizer Chiefs first-team return by featuring in his first competitive match since a long-term injury. The left-footed midfielder played a part in the club's reserve side's 3-2 victory over Orlando Pirates in the DStv Diski Challenge opener on Sunday.

Sporting director Kaizer Motaung Jr confirmed the progress, welcoming Mabaso's return to action at Princess Magogo Stadium. "We were also happy to see senior team midfielder Thulani Mabaso play his first competitive match since picking up an injury a few months ago," Motaung Jr said through the club's official channels. "His return means he is getting closer to match readiness for the first team."

The club is managing the Meadowlands-born technician's reintegration carefully, viewing his reserve outing as a necessary stepping stone. Mabaso, who made seven senior appearances last season, is seen as a potential boost to the midfield as Chiefs chase the Betway Premiership title. The senior side currently sits fourth in the Premier Soccer League with 13 points from seven games, seven points behind leaders Mamelodi Sundowns. The team's next fixture is a league match against Stellenbosch FC on Saturday, October 19. In their recent run of five unbeaten league games, which includes four draws, the team has averaged scoring a goal every 90 minutes.

Reserve side wins derby opener

The youth Soweto Derby served as a perfect platform for Mabaso's comeback. Kaizer Chiefs' reserve team claimed a 3-2 win in the 2026/27 season opener, with Motaung Jr praising the collective effort. "It was truly a gallant effort by the boys in their opening fixture," he said. The victory continues a positive trend for the club's development side, which Mabaso helped to the DStv Diski Challenge title in the 2024/25 campaign.

His potential return comes at a useful time. The first team is unbeaten in its last five league matches, though it has drawn four of them. Supporters tracking the club's push up the table can follow the latest standings.

Chiefs are seeking to bolster their midfield options and appear ready to fast-track Mabaso’s reintroduction to the senior squad pending continued progress in training and possible further reserve outings. The club's management is focused on ensuring he builds the necessary match fitness to contribute to the first team's campaign.

First reported at Briefly News