The Chilli Boys' head coach Kwanele Kopo has opened up about the challenges and progress of striker Azola Matrose.
After two seasons as a Pirates player, Matrose returned to the Eastern Cape outfit as a surprise signing. Tragically, he never had the chance to wear the Pirates shirt in a competitive game due to a long-term injury.
As one of the league's most promising young players, Matrose has shown the potential to revive his career and fulfill that potential at Chippa.
Against the Buccaneers, Chippa will open the 24/25 Betway Premiership season against Matrose's old team.
During the Premiership launch on Tuesday, Kopo was asked about Matrose's readiness for the season. "Azola [Matrose] has been with us for about three weeks," he replied.
As he returned from Pirates, he was going through rehab, recovering from an injury. Therefore, he was training sideline for the first two weeks.
As he only started training last week Thursday, we have had less than five training sessions with him, but we believe he will be ready for the Pirates game."
In the next week or so, it will be clear whether Azola will start or make an impact from the bench, but barring injury, he should definitely be in the squad to play Pirates.
In addition to Matrose, Chippa have signed Andile Jali, Xolani Sithole, and Aphelele Teto this transfer window.
On 18 September, the Pirates will host The Chilli Boys at Orlando Stadium.
