Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabiso "Skapie" Malatsi has issued a challenge to the current squad, urging them to win their upcoming CAF Confederation Cup encounter against Red Arrows with greater intensity and focus.

While speaking with the Siya crew, Malatsi expressed his scepticism on the present squad's capacity to provide results worthy of a club of the Chiefs' stature. "I am sick of the present Kaizer Chiefs team," he said in tribute to club chairman Dr. Kaizer Motaung, before urging the team to do their best and honour the badge. "They need to show that they belong on this big club and honour the badge," Malatsi reprimanded.

His criticism comes after fans and ex-players have criticised the team's performance and outcomes.

The previous week was Motaung's birthday, which Malatsi brought up again, saying that the players should have been motivated to perform to the chairman's standards because of it.

If the players really wanted to win over the chairman, they'd have to show some fighting spirit on the pitch. He elaborated by saying that one may question their commitment level as it is taking on behind the scenes.

The ex-midfielder claims that, rather than being enthused by the team's recent performance, Motaung may feel disappointed.

Persuade the chairman, please. It will make him happy. "Please, gentlemen, I don't think that's asking too much," said Malatsi.

He went on to say that the game was played with the intention of making the chairman proud, much like previous generations of Chiefs players.

However, Malatsi is going full steam ahead for the club's upcoming European fixture. On Friday, Chiefs will host Red Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium for the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup contest.

Fans will be expecting for a solid performance from the club in the next Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates, another major event.

Malatsi stressed that a victory vs Red Arrows is crucial for the team's advancement to the next round. They will not be able to focus on pirates until that happens.

Playing for a prestigious South African football team comes with great expectations, and he underlines the significance of putting in the work and producing the goods. If the Chiefs wish to advance in the continental tournament, they must now demonstrate on the pitch that they are worthy of these expectations.

The information was sourced from: https://x.com/soccer_laduma/status/2113223952155725834?s=4.