Makabi Lilepo has quickly become a fan favourite at Kaizer Chiefs, emerging as a shining light in an otherwise turbulent season for the Soweto giants.
When Lilepo joined Amakhosi from French outfit Valenciennes FC during the January transfer window, he arrived without much fanfare. Like many African-born players returning from underwhelming European spells, he was expected to languish on the bench or even in the stands.
So far, he has proved his doubters wrong. Lilepo has made an immediate impact, silencing critics with five goals — making him Chiefs’ top scorer in the Betway Premiership.
His performances reflect his pedigree, having previously featured in continental competitions with Al Hilal of Sudan and AS Vita of his native Democratic Republic of Congo.
However, Lilepo’s success hasn’t come in isolation. The presence of coach Nasreddine Nabi, who had reportedly shown interest in signing the winger at his previous clubs, may have helped ease his adaptation to South African football.
Speaking after Lilepo scored the equaliser in Chiefs’ 1-1 draw with Sekhukhune United on Saturday, Nabi revealed that the 27-year-old has yet to hit his full stride.
Meet your new player Glody Makabi Lilepo arriving in a @ToyotaSA Hilux #Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/E9hQRLvSyX
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) January 27, 2025
“He’s a player that has not reached his potential yet,” Nabi explained.
“Before he came here, he spent some months without playing due to issues at his previous club. You can see he hasn’t been finishing games — once he’s had a proper pre-season and more time with his teammates, he’ll be able to offer even more in attack.”
Despite not being at his best, Lilepo has already won the hearts of the Chiefs faithful, who chant his name — “Lilepo, Lilepo, Lilepo” — whenever he is involved in an attacking move or scores.
With the season finale looming, he will be key to Chiefs’ hopes of securing a top-eight finish. They host Polokwane City at FNB Stadium needing a win to boost their chances of breaking into the Top 8. Chiefs are currently ninth on the log with 31 points — one behind eighth-placed Chippa United, who have already completed their league campaign.
Congratulations to Glody Lilepo – Winner of the #BetwayPrem Goal of the Month for April 2025#Amakhosi4Life pic.twitter.com/y2PgBo2dM7
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) May 14, 2025
A draw might still be enough for Chiefs, provided their goal difference remains superior to Chippa’s, but they would also need other results to go their way. With Lilepo in form — having won April’s Goal of the Month award — he’ll be eager to find the net once again. And Nabi believes he can.
“He’s a winger, but the kind of winger who can finish the season with 10 goals,” Nabi said.
“He loves cutting inside and always looks for scoring opportunities or ways to help his teammates. We believe he can do more.”
While Lilepo continues to shine up front, Chiefs will also need to stay disciplined at the back. That’s why Nabi is encouraged by the emergence of promising young talent in defence.
Aiden McCarthy — son of Chiefs legend Fabian McCarthy — made his debut and first senior start against Sekhukhune in central defence. Despite the high-stakes setting, he impressed Nabi and his technical team.
“I am very happy with Aiden’s performance. It wasn’t easy to throw him into a game like that,” Nabi said.
“It was his first start and he’d never played for another top-flight team. Even though there were a few small errors, his calmness, confidence on the ball, and personality showed he has a bright future.”
