Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper coach exit confirmed, Mokwana on joining Chiefs, Jomo Sono praises Broos

It’s been a whirlwind week in South African football, with major developments surrounding Kaizer Chiefs, a promising addition to their technical staff, and high praise from one of the country’s most respected football legends.

As the domestic league heats up, changes at the top clubs are starting to take shape—and Kaizer Chiefs are once again in the spotlight.

Kaizer Chiefs have officially confirmed the departure of their goalkeeper coach, Rainer Dinkelacker, who had been working with the club in an advisory role for several years.

His contract, which was due to expire at the end of the season, will not be renewed.

The German mentor, who is highly regarded in local football circles for his impact on South African goalkeepers, will be leaving the club with immediate effect.

Chiefs released a short statement thanking Dinkelacker for his contribution, particularly his mentorship of the club’s goalkeeping department and his work with Itumeleng Khune and other emerging talents.

While the statement was respectful and appreciative, it also marked the end of a chapter that many fans considered critical in the team’s goalkeeping stability.

Dinkelacker’s exit has prompted a number of questions about the direction the club is taking with its technical staff.

With Kaizer Chiefs struggling for consistency this season, it’s clear that management is beginning to make bold decisions in hopes of turning things around.

Rumors had been swirling for weeks about possible changes behind the scenes, and this confirmation only adds weight to the belief that more departures—and arrivals—could be on the way.

One of the arrivals that has caught attention is that of Vela Khumalo Mokwana, a rising name in South African coaching circles.

Although his role at Kaizer Chiefs has not yet been officially defined, sources close to the club have confirmed that he is set to join their technical setup.

Mokwana, who has previously worked with youth development at SAFA and at other clubs, is seen as a progressive thinker with a strong understanding of modern football.

He is particularly praised for his work with young players and his commitment to tactical detail.

In a brief interview, Mokwana expressed his excitement about the move, calling it a “massive opportunity” and adding that he is ready to “give everything” to help the club return to its glory days.

Mokwana’s appointment, though not yet officially announced by Chiefs, has already sparked excitement among fans who are desperate for new ideas and direction.

He represents a younger generation of coaches who combine academic knowledge with on-the-ground experience.

His potential collaboration with the rest of the technical team could mark a turning point in the club’s efforts to modernize its football philosophy.

There is also speculation that his presence could lead to better integration of youth players into the first team, something fans have been calling for over the past few seasons.

As these changes unfold at Kaizer Chiefs, another story is developing at the national level—and it involves praise from a legend of the game.

Jomo Sono, widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most influential football figures, has spoken out in support of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

In recent interviews, Sono commended Broos for his leadership during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign and for the tactical maturity shown by the national team.

Sono said that Broos had “restored pride” to the South African shirt and had shown that discipline, structure, and hard work could produce results even against the continent’s strongest teams.

Jomo Sono’s words carry weight not just because of his status as a former player and coach, but because he rarely gives public praise unless he believes it is well-deserved.

He pointed to South Africa’s performance in the knockout rounds of AFCON as proof that the team is heading in the right direction.

In particular, he highlighted the defensive organization and the improved confidence of individual players.

He also praised the inclusion of lesser-known talents and the balance Broos has struck between youth and experience.

According to Sono, this blend is what South African football needs—less reliance on individual flair and more focus on cohesion, teamwork, and tactical discipline.

Broos’ recent success with Bafana Bafana has started to change perceptions around foreign coaches in South Africa.

When he was first appointed, there was skepticism about whether the Belgian would understand the unique challenges of South African football.

But over time, his results have begun to speak for themselves.

Under Broos, the team has improved its FIFA ranking, reached the latter stages of AFCON, and begun to develop a clearer football identity.

His preference for selecting in-form players rather than relying on reputations has also been well received by fans and analysts alike.

The praise from Jomo Sono is a welcome boost for Broos as he continues to build towards the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and upcoming friendlies.

It also reflects a broader shift in the local football landscape—where results, rather than politics or personality, are beginning to matter more.

For many, the hope is that Broos will be given the time and support needed to continue developing the squad and implementing his philosophy.

There have even been discussions about extending his contract, although no formal talks have been confirmed.

Back at club level, Kaizer Chiefs will be hoping that the changes they are making now can help them return to the summit of South African football.

The departure of Dinkelacker marks the end of an era, but the possible arrival of Mokwana signals the start of something new.

Coupled with the positive mood surrounding the national team, it seems South African football is at a crossroads—balancing legacy with the future, and tradition with innovation.

Whether the gamble pays off will depend on what happens in the coming weeks and months, both on the pitch and behind the scenes.

But one thing is clear: change is happening, and the stakes are higher than ever.