Kaizer Chiefs took a trip to East London on Saturday. The assignment is a Nedbank Cup Last 32 fixture against Tornado FC. Enthusiastic supporters welcomed the Glamour Boys upon arrival at the East London airport.

“We have already made it known in no uncertain terms that we want to win and progress to the next stage,” reiterated coach Middendorp after the pre-match session on Saturday afternoon. “We do not have the luxury of selecting matches, all the games we play are important. I’m happy with the preparation, although it’s clear that the opponent would like to cause an upset.”

The cup encounter against Tornado will take place at Mdantsane’s Sisa Dukashe Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Kick-off is at 15:00. As already mentioned at the Kaizer Chiefs website earlier this week, Mario Booysen didn’t travel to East London.

“We are developing into a team that will have every member contributing,” confirmed Middendorp. “We don’t have what we call a first or second team. We will field the side thatwill have the capabilities to win a specific match. One player who will make his debut on Sunday is Happy.”

Happy Mashiane was promoted this week from the Kaizer Chiefs Youth Development Academy to the first team, signing a contract. “We know his qualities,” Middendorpcommented about the talented left-back. “I feel confident that he will fulfil his potential.”

Absent due to suspension is Siphosakhe Ntiya-Ntiya. The extensive injury list still includesPhilani Zulu (face fracture), Itumeleng Khune (shoulder), Lorenzo Gordinho (hand fracture), Lebogang Manyama (knee), Joseph Molangoane (ankle) and Mulomowandau Mathoho(ankle).

“Ramahlwe Mphahlele made the trip and is expected to take part in the match,” revealedMiddendorp about the right-back, who has recovered from a knee injury. “We welcome ‘Rama’ back, as he gives us more options in our approach to the game.”

Also making the travelling squad are Bhongolethu Jayiya and Gustavo Páez. Both have been working hard to make their way into the match day squad.

“They have made steady progress,” said Middendorp about the midfielder and the striker. “I’m happy with their progress and I think they deserve a nod in the team.”