Kaizer Chiefs' match this weekend against a Ke Yona side assembled by well-known local coaches, Khabo Zondo, Owen da Gama, Shakes Mashaba and Mike Mangena, promises to be more than just a friendly affair.
During last season’s Nedbank Cup, a talent search was launched, which culminated in 23 young players from different provinces being selected for the final team to play against Chiefs, who won the competition after beating SuperSport United in the final.
Nonetheless, despite the game being played in the spirit of development as Chiefs are also expected to field a team of younger first team squad fringe players, the Ke Yona side are reportedly eager to show they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Read: Doctor Khumalo To Lead Chiefs Against Ke Yona
In the lead up to the game, 21-year-old striker Delano Abrahams from Kimberley told the Ke Yona team's official website, "I did not come here to play games. I came here to show South Africa what I can do..."
Ke Yona's 34-year-old Diepsloot-based central midfielder, Collen Mashawa, added, "I've prepared well. Nothing will stand in my way."
22-year-old North West Province native and Ke Yona goalkeeper, Japhta Merase, explained why the getting the opportunity to shine on the biggest stage was so important. He said, "There will never be an opportunity like this again."
Read: Mashawa Warns Chiefs Of Ke Yona Team's Quality
With the match providing these previously undiscovered gems with the hope of shining on the big stage and perhaps eventually winning a professional contract, the game against Chiefs seems sure to be an exciting affair.
The action gets underway on Sunday at Lucas Moripe Stadium from 15h00 and will be televised live on Sabc 1 and SuperSport 4.
Follow David on Twitter: @DavidLaduma
