KAIZER Chiefs defender Lorenzo Gordinho is likely to miss the opening round of the Telkom Knockout matches next week due to injury.
But he has no doubt about the team’s determination to win the Knockout competition and turn around their terrible start to the season.
Amakhosi were handed a favourable draw yesterday, getting paired with AmaZulu in the Last 16 round of the Knockout Challenge.
Gordinho, still nursing fractured ribs but optimistic about his recovery, is likely to miss the first round fixture.
Pressure to win a knockout cup returns for Steve Komphela and his boys amid expectations from frustrated fans.
“There is a bit of pressure but also a chance to start off on a clean slate. It’s a new cup competition and we can start off with a win, go through to the next round and boost our confidence so we can turn things around,” said Gordinho.
“We should try winning this one and picking up some form. It’s a very important week for us, a big week. If we can get through it we can definitely go into the cup competition with confidence.”
Amakhosi face their toughest league week so far – a crunch clash with foes Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld tonight and a battle with fiercest rivals Orlando Pirates in the Soweto derby on Saturday.
Gordinho sat out the last two matches, his absence keenly felt in a rearguard also missing two other regular defenders in Tsepo Masilela and Ramahlwe Mphahlele.
He played 30 matches last season and six so far this season, firmly establishing himself as a regular in Komphela’s team.
“I have my final scan next Wednesday, so I think a week from now I should be back to proper training,” Gordinho said.
“I do hope to be back for the AmaZulu game. The way it’s looking, it’s unlikely I’ll be back by then.”