Kaizer Chiefs have rewarded Zitha Kwinika with a contract extension after the defender ended the 2024/2025 season on a high. The club opted to retain the reliable centre-back, who originally returned to Naturena in July 2022 on a three-year deal from Stellenbosch FC.
The Chiefs academy graduate worked his way up through the ranks before leaving in 2016.
He gained experience across several PSL clubs, including Chippa United, Thanda Royal Zulu, Bidvest Wits, and Stellenbosch, before shining at Stellies, where he clinched their Player of the Season award. His impressive performances prompted Amakhosi to bring him back into the fold.
Kwinika resurgence at Chiefs
Kwinika featured in 28 matches during his first campaign back in Soweto. Though his game time dipped to 18 appearances in his second season, he proved his worth when it mattered most.
Despite Kaizer Chiefs bolstering their defensive line with new signings Inacio Miguel, Rushwin Dortley, and Bradley Cross under head coach Nasreddine Nabi, Kwinika found chances hard to come by earlier in the season. Cross even filled in as a left-back, further complicating selection.
However, injuries to Miguel and Dortley opened the door, and Kwinika seized the opportunity with commanding displays that earned him the club’s trust once again.
Mdantsane departs after forgettable spell
While one player secures his future, another heads for the exit. Chiefs have officially parted ways with midfielder Mduduzi Mdantsane after a disappointing stint at the club.
Mdantsane arrived at Naturena in June 2023 from Cape Town City with high expectations, but the move failed to deliver. An untimely motor vehicle accident injury early in the 2024/25 season sidelined the 30-year-old and disrupted his momentum.
Will these Kaizer Chiefs decisions take them forward?
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