For years, Kaizer Chiefs have looked beyond South Africa’s borders in search of football talent, and Zimbabwe has been a prime hunting ground.
The Amakhosi have had a rich history of recruiting Zimbabwean stars, many of whom have made a lasting impact at the club. From tough defenders to skillful midfielders and clinical strikers, these players have contributed to Kaizer Chiefs’ legacy in the PSL (Premier Soccer League).
Here’s a look at Zimbabwean-born players who have donned the famous gold and black jersey:
Tinashe “The General” Nengomasha (Midfielder)
One of the best defensive midfielders to play in the PSL, Nengomasha was a fan favorite at Kaizer Chiefs. He won the PSL Player of the Season (2003-04) and played a key role in the club’s success during his decade-long stay (2002–2012). KaizerChiefs.com asked Nengomasha what he did with his first paycheck at the club. He responded that he used it to buy furniture for his mother’s house, including beds they previously didn’t have and also built a wall around the house.
Willard “Salt and Vinegar” Katsande (Midfielder)
A warrior in midfield, Katsande was a hard-tackling enforcer who became a pillar of the Kaizer Chiefs squad. Like Nengomasha, Katsande spent 10 years at the club (2011–2021), winning the 2014-15 PSL title and captaining the team. Katsande scored his first official goal on 15 March 2014, netting a 61st-minute header in a 1–0 Soweto derby win over Orlando Pirates. He was the biggest winner at the Kaizer Chiefs Awards on 21 May 2014, claiming five titles, including Player of the Season and Players’ Player of the Season.
Knowledge “Smiling Assassin” Musona (Forward)
Knowledge Musona, originally from Norton in Mashonaland West. He joined Amakhosi in 2009. Musona made an immediate impact at Kaizer Chiefs, scoring goals with ease. He won the PSL Golden Boot (2010-11) and later returned for a second spell. His performances earned him moves to Europe.
Khama Billiat (Attacking Midfielder/Forward)
A marquee signing from Mamelodi Sundowns, Billiat was one of the most skillful players in South Africa. He made his competitive debut for the club on 4 August 2018 in a 1–1 league draw against his former team, Mamelodi Sundowns. He played a crucial role for Chiefs, but injuries and inconsistency affected his form.
Thomas Sweswe (Defender)
A rock-solid center-back, Sweswe was known for his no-nonsense defending. He played for Chiefs between 2009 and 2012, forming part of a strong defensive unit. Sweswe scored his first goal for Kaizer Chiefs and the first Premier Soccer League goal of his career with a header in a 1–0 win over Mamelodi Sundowns on 4 December 2011.
Jimmy Jambo (Defender)
A left-back with great attacking instincts, Jambo was unfortunate to have his career cut short by injury. He played a key role before retiring early.
Lincoln Zvasiya (Defender)
Zvasiya was a promising center-back who played for Chiefs between 2011 and 2013. Though his time was short, he gained valuable experience at Naturena.
Onismor Bhasera (Defender)
Before moving abroad, Bhasera had a spell at Chiefs where he showcased his defensive and attacking abilities as a left-back.
Ovidy Karuru (Attacking Midfielder)
A versatile midfielder, Karuru struggled for regular game time at Chiefs but had moments of brilliance when given the chance.
Kingston Nkatha (Striker)
A powerful striker, Nkatha was a hardworking forward who often divided opinion among fans. He played an important role in Chiefs’ 2014-15 league-winning campaign.
Mitchelle Katsvairo (Striker)
Mitchelle Katsvairo is on of the Zimbabwean players who played for Kaizer Chiefs. Katsvairo arrived at Chiefs with high expectations but struggled to make a significant impact before moving on.
Teenage Hadebe (Defender)
A solid and versatile center-back, Hadebe joined Kaizer Chiefs in 2017 from Zimbabwe’s Chicken Inn. He quickly became a key part of the defense with his aerial ability and composure on the ball. After two seasons at Chiefs, he moved to Yeni Malatyaspor in Turkey and later to the MLS with Houston Dynamo.
Matthew Rusike (Attacking Midfielder/Forward)
Rusike joined Kaizer Chiefs in 2012 and was part of the squad that won the 2012-13 PSL title under Stuart Baxter. A versatile attacker, he could play as a forward or attacking midfielder. Although he wasn’t a prolific goal scorer, his work rate and ability to play multiple roles made him a valuable squad member.
Zimbabwean Influence at Kaizer Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs’ recruitment of Zimbabwean players has been a defining feature of the club’s history. Players like Nengomasha, Katsande, and Musona became household names, proving that Zimbabwe continues to be a goldmine for footballing talent.
Will Kaizer Chiefs continue their tradition of signing Zimbabwean stars in the future?
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