With the emerging keepers at Naturena, the Amakhosi senior team is expected not to struggle for top stars in that department. However, the challenge for the Soweto giants is to produce dependable goalkeepers who can match or go above Itumeleng Khune in terms of performance and longevity. Replacing the former Bafana Bafana custodian has been a mission that Chiefs have not successfully accomplished since Khune left in 2024.

Once tipped as one of the best goalkeepers in the country, the former Maritzburg United star has decided to quit the football scene. At 30, especially for a goalkeeper, that is seen as a relatively young age, but he has decided to call it quits. His retirement has come at a time when the debate on who should replace the current Bafana Bafana goalkeepers has been partly dominating headlines.

One of the key components in any team setup is a competitive goalkeeping department. In most cases, the best, usually the most experienced one, is always the number one choice, and in the case of Bafana, Mamelodi Sundowns' captain has been the undisputed choice. With his age advancing and no young successor in the picture already, a goalkeeping problem for the national team has been predicted.

The 20-year-old Bafana Bafana international has been excellent for both the Buccaneers and the national team despite making his debut in top football in March under the then Bucs tactician Jose Riveiro. He will now be playing in the Major League Soccer in the United States after the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The Premier Soccer League leaders marched into the final at New Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday, December 6, chasing a second trophy of the campaign, having already lifted the MTN8 earlier in the season. Standing in their way were Bahlabane ba Ntwa, determined to script history by claiming their first-ever piece of major silverware in the top-flight.