How Khune earned GOAT status at Kaizer Chiefs

by Staff Reporter

Thursday May 23, 2024. 16:00

In a historical sense, it can be said that Kaizer Chiefs have been blessed in the goalkeeping department during the PSL era. As seen with talents such as Brian Baloyi and Rowan Fernandez, who became fan favourites during their time with the Soweto giants.

However, Itumeleng Khune has largely been considered one of, if not the greatest goalkeeper to have donned the famous Chiefs kit.

Here’s a look at how ‘Itu’ earned ‘Greatest Of All Time’ status with the Glamour Boys.

Serial Winner

With three PSL league titles to his name, coupled with seven cup trophies in his cabinet, Khune played a pivotal role in some of Chiefs’ most dominant campaigns in the PSL era. While the club endured frustrating dry spells in the last couple of years, Khune remained as one of the most decorated players in the Amakhosi dressing room.

Longevity & Loyalty

Khune exploded on the South African football scene in 2007, where Muhsin Ertugral gave the then-20-year-old his debut in a 1-1 draw with Jomo Cosmos at the Kings Park Stadium. Now, after 347 appearances and 153 clean sheets later, Khune remains an idol among the club’s adoring supporters. In what is now almost a forgotten memory in South African football, Khune came narrowly close to joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2015. Itu became a free agent after turning down a new contract with the club during the 2014/15 season and was believed to be interested in a big money contract at Chloorkop.

However, Khune returned to Naturena with cap in hand as he committed his long-term future with his boyhood club.

Trademark Distribution

Self-proclaimed as ‘distribution 101’, Khune’s ball kicking abilities set him apart from some of the best goalkeepers in the PSL throughout his career. Whether it be out of hand, or as zipping passes at his feet, Khune will always be remembered as one of the best ball-playing goalkeepers of his generation.