Kaizer Chiefs head into their upcoming fixture with new challenges to face, following a tough 1-0 loss to Orlando Pirates in the latest Soweto Derby.
While the defeat was a blow to the Amakhosi faithful, coach Nasreddine Nabi has a fresh set of hurdles to contend with, most notably the suspension of utility player Njabulo Blom.
Blom, who earned his fourth yellow card of the season during the derby, will be absent for Chiefs' next match, forcing Nabi to adjust his starting XI.
His suspension comes at a crucial time, as Chiefs are sitting in fifth place with 21 points from 15 matches, just two points ahead of AmaZulu, who have been in good form following their 2-1 win over SuperSport United.
Read: Khune Clears The Air On Nabi
Without Blom's crucial presence at right back, Nabi will need to make tactical decisions to ensure his side maintains their grip on the top half of the table. This could provide an opportunity for some of the new signings, such as Thabo Cele and Glody Lilepo, to stake a more prominent claim in the starting line-up.
The pair made appearances in the second half against Pirates and will be expected to step up as Chiefs look to return to winning ways.
The return of fellow new signing Tashreeq Morris, who was also suspended for the derby, adds much-needed attacking impetus to coach Nabi's options. Morris is yet to make his debut for the Soweto giants, since signing from SuperSport United and the question now is whether Nabi will opt to throw the 31-year-old into the starting XI or ease him in with a substitute appearance.
Read: Chiefs Unveil Morris And Cele Signings
