It’s not every day that a goalless draw leaves fans buzzing with excitement.
But that’s exactly what happened after Kaizer Chiefs’ clash with Asante Kotoko at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Despite the heartbreak of losing the match in a penalty shootout, supporters walked away with one thing on their minds—Thabo Cele.
Stalemate Ends in Penalty Drama
Kaizer Chiefs and Asante Kotoko played out a tightly contested 0-0 draw in regular time.
The match then went into penalties, where Kotoko edged it 3-2.
It was the second consecutive loss in the Toyota Cup for the Chiefs, but the perform
ance on the pitch showed signs of promise.
From the get-go, Chiefs looked sharp, particularly in the first half.
They controlled possession and dictated the tempo, but it was their finishing that let them down once again.
Cele Shines Bright in the Midfield Trio
One of the most talked-about names after the final whistle was 28-year-old Bafana Bafana midfielder Thabo Cele.
Lining up alongside Sibongiseni Mthethwa and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Cele pulled the strings in midfield.
His vision, composure, and technical quality stood out, and fans couldn’t help but rave about it.
It was a much-improved performance compared to their recent run in the Netherlands, and Cele seemed to be at the heart of everything good for Amakhosi.
Fans Shower Cele with Praise Online
Social media lit up with reactions to Cele’s display.
Chiefs fans were quick to sing his praises and even make bold predictions about his future.
“I have seen enough—we’ve got Player of the Season loading here.
Thabo Cele is a proper footballer,” tweeted @Romeo20040.
“Thabo Cele is a very skillful midfielder. If you’re not careful when marking him, you’ll break your ankle,” added @PrinceSobayeni1.
“Thabo Cele is the only player I would genuinely consider putting on the back of my new Kappa jersey.
I haven’t admired a Chiefs player like this in years. The last one was Doctor Khumalo,” shared @Ta_Fitty.
That kind of fanfare doesn’t come lightly—and it’s clear Cele is starting to win hearts.
Chiefs Eye Fresh Start in New Season
Despite back-to-back Toyota Cup defeats, Kaizer Chiefs can take some positives into the upcoming season.
Their 2025/26 campaign kicks off against Stellenbosch on August 10, and fans will be hoping Cele brings the same energy to competitive league matches.
Is Cele the Real Deal?
From the looks of it, Thabo Cele might just be the player Chiefs have been waiting for in midfield.
He’s calm, creative, and already drawing comparisons to club legends. Could he be the next big thing for Amakhosi?