After the final Carling Black Label Cup line-ups were officially announced on Monday evening, Kaizer Chiefs had one new entrant, who booked his spot in the last minute.
In the week leading up to the final day of the CBL Cup votes, Edmilson Dove was not yet in the line-up for Chiefs but the left-footed versatile defender made the final cut at the eleventh hour, with his regular central defence partner, Zitha Kwinika missing out.
Ahead of the second derby against Orlando Pirates within two weeks, Dove reflected on his his stay at Chiefs so far after he was signed as a free agent early in the season.
"Obviously it feels great, I was very well welcomed here when I came, and most of the guys I already knew," the Mozambican told the media in a press conference at Naturena village.
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"But getting to spend each and everyday together is something different, I can't complain, I'm enjoying my time here and I'm hoping it gets better from here."
In a rebuilding process, Amakhosi had a number of Soweto Derby debutants, after the side edged their fierce rivals 1-0, thanks to a special goal by Yusuf Maart.
Dove was one of the players who featured and went on to say that it was a special occasion and ranks the game as one of the best he has ever played.
"I feel like that is the dream of each and every player, you want to play in packed stadiums and getting the opportunity to be in a derby, it was special for me, it was amazing," the former Cape Town City defender continued.
"You know we're used to only watch on the TV and being there on the field, the atmosphere was there, the supporters were there, so I think it was one of the best games that I've ever played.
"You know for those games you don't need motivation, you get what I mean? The guys were there, the energy was there and I think that's one of the things we need, to keep that.
"It was a game that you don't need anyone to tell you that it's a big game, you already motivate yourself for those type of games and the mood in camp was great as always."
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Dove added that he has developed a good relationship with Kwinika in the heart of defence, although there is still room for improvement.
"We have a good relationship, same as other guys, obviously there's certain things we can get better at as time goes but as I always say, everything is a process," he said.
"We're in that process of getting to know each other better and I think with time it will get there," he added.
Chiefs' confirmed CBL Cup line-up v Pirates: Petersen, Mathoho, Nj. Ngcobo, Dove, Hlanti, Blom, Maart, Sekgota, Nk. Ngcobo, Dolly, Billiat
