Amakhosi skipper, Brandon Petersen feels the team has a point to prove on their return to the MTN8 competition for the first time since 2023/24 when they face Lamontville Golden Arrows at FNB stadium on Sunday evening, 9 August.

Speaking exclusively to www.kaizerchefs.com at the conclusion of the competition’s launch, the goalkeeper says, “It has been a while since we have been in the MTN8 so obviously, I am very happy. We missed out the past two seasons which is something that we don’t want to experience again and we are excited to be back in it.

“Kaizer Chiefs should be competing for this trophy every season and I think our absence has given us extra motivation to do well this time. We are looking to hit the ground running and hopefully go all the way.”

The Glamour Boys made an impressive start to their Betway Premiership campaign last weekend with a statement 3-1 win over newly-promoted Kruger United that has filled the camp with optimism and belief in the methods of new coach, Fernando Da Cruz.

“The mood in the camp is great,” Petersen continues, “The new guys have been settling in nicely and we are adapting to the coach’s style. So far, so good. After our performance against Kruger United we are all enthusiastic about the season ahead.”

Petersen is well aware that they face a difficult opponent in Abafana Besthende, who qualified for the MTN8 by finishing sixth last season.

“Playing them is always a tough challenge. They are well structured and tactically disciplined. We know we’ll have our work cut out,” he admits before adding, “but come Sunday, I know the guys will be up for it.”

The match marks the first opportunity for Chiefs to play in front of their fans this season and Petersen encourages them all to join the team at FNB stadium on Sunday.

“We’d love to see all our supporters come out to celebrate Women’s Day with us and get behind the team in our first home game,” he urges, “They make a big difference in lifting the atmosphere and energising the players.”

The match kicks off at 18:00.