Goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba said it was bittersweet to be heading home but added that the team’s mission was not yet complete. He explained that the squad wanted to finish strong with a win. Mazhamba also noted that while the match would be challenging, the players had been preparing for a long time and were ready for it.

Mazhamba featured in the first match against Manchester United, conceding one goal. Another Chiefs goalkeeper, Naphtali Mokoena, also let in one goal during the 1-1 draw with Leeds United on Tuesday.

Reflecting on his 2025 season, Mazhamba said it had been a remarkable year. He highlighted winning the Diski Challenge title with the Chiefs in May and contributing to South Africa’s Under-20 team, which achieved a historic milestone by winning the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time. By winning the AFCON, the Amajita automatically qualified for the Under-20 FIFA World Cup, where they were eliminated in the Round of 16.

Mazhamba said he was proud to have taken part in these competitions and that he had achieved the goals he set for himself. He added that he was happy with the recognition but was still aiming to achieve more.

Chiefs will look to carry this momentum into their final UK match and end the tour with a victory against QPR.