After Kaizer Chiefs' 2-1 defeat to Vitesse in their first pre-season match in the Netherlands, Soccer Laduma discusses the five major talking points.
Amakhosi went into half-time with a 1-0 lead thanks to a goal from Reeve Frosler, but the Soweto giants conceded two goals in the second half after head coach Nasreddine Nabi changed the entire starting line-up.
READ: New Boys On Display As Chiefs Lose Friendly
There were concerns, but positives too. Here are five key talking points from the pre-season friendly.
Aiden McCarthy to get more opportunities
McCarthy made just one first team appearance for Amakhosi last season, but could get more opportunities in the coming campaign, especially after his promising performance in the first 45 minutes against Vitesse. Playing as a left-sided centre-back alongside Inacio Miguel, McCarthy was often calm in possession of the ball.
Petersen to start season as number one?
There's been talk of Amakhosi possibly getting a new goalkeeper for the coming season, but as things stand, they are working with what they have. Petersen, who was a surprise starter in the Nedbank Cup in May, got the nod to start first against Vitesse before a change was made in the second half when Bruce Bvuma came on.
Frosler an option at left back
Both Nkanyiso Shinga and Bradley cross were available, but Nabi opted to start with Frosler at left back, a position which is not new to him. The right back hardly ever looked out of place at left back, getting forward when the opportunity presented itself. He scored the only goal for Amakhosi, a well taken effort with his right foot.
READ: Sundowns Confirm Five Exits
Nabi considering Cross at centre back?
Used as a left back throughout last season, Cross could get a chance to play as a left-sided centre back a bit more this term, as he came on in the second 45 minutes. It's a position he played in while he was in Europe. Having been caught out for pace at left quite a few times, Cross could be played as a left-sided centre back this season.
Miguel the captain?
Yusuf Maart is believed to be heading to Austria to sign for SV Ried, so Amakhosi are expected to have a new captain in the coming season and it looks as though Inacio Miguel is the man who Nabi will trust for the role. Miguel wore the armband last season whenever Maart was not on the pitch and is likely to be appointed to lead, with Zitha Kwinika possibly as vice-captain.
Bet now with Mzansibet to claim your R100 bonus bet!