Kaizer Chiefs news: Etiosa Ighodaro tipped for big return by Amakhosi legend
Retold by Oddsrama · 15 July 2026
Nigerian striker Etiosa Ighodaro is being tipped for a major breakthrough at Kaizer Chiefs this season after a nightmare debut year blighted by injuries. The 25-year-old arrived at the Soweto giants with significant fanfare but managed just seven competitive appearances in his first campaign, leaving many to question whether the move would work out. Things got so bad that he didn't feature at all during the 2026 calendar year, effectively disappearing from the conversation around the club.
But there's genuine optimism building around Ighodaro heading into the new campaign. Under new manager Fernando Da Cruz, the former Chippa United and AmaZulu man has impressed during pre-season, most notably scoring in a 1-1 friendly draw against Rangers in Spain. Morgan Gould, a Kaizer Chiefs legend and former South Africa international, believes this is the moment Ighodaro finally delivers. Speaking on Kaizer Chiefs Radio, Gould highlighted how a player's second season often separates the pretenders from the real deal at a club of Chiefs' standing. He reckons Ighodaro has now "been through the blessing and the curse" and is ready to show exactly why he deserves his contract.
The timing couldn't be better for the Nigerian. Chiefs have been quiet in the transfer window, losing several attacking options like Tashreeq Morris and Gaston Sirino. That vacancy up front gives Ighodaro the platform he desperately needs. With a run of matches left in pre-season—including fixtures against Al Kholood and Elche—he can build real momentum. If fitness cooperates, staying injury-free could feel like bringing in a brand-new signing for Amakhosi, and it could also earn him a maiden Super Eagles call-up under Eric Chelle. For betting purposes, a fit and firing Ighodaro could significantly boost Chiefs' attacking prowess this term.
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