Luke Baartman makes strong Kaizer Chiefs statement with impressive season opener

Kaizer Chiefs began their Betway Premiership campaign with a convincing 3-1 victory over Kruger United on Saturday, but the biggest positive for new head coach Fernando Da Cruz was arguably the standout performance of young attacker Luke Baartman.

The 20-year-old winger was a constant attacking threat from the left flank, providing the creativity and spark that Chiefs often lacked during the previous campaign. Every time he received the ball, Baartman looked capable of creating something dangerous and offered a glimpse of his growing potential.

Despite entering his fourth season as a professional, Baartman remains just 20 years old and has only made 10 starts across his 32 senior appearances.

Baartman’s journey to Kaizer Chiefs

Baartman first caught attention as a teenager when he broke through at Cape Town Spurs in 2023. His debut came in a memorable 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates, immediately showcasing the talent that had already been recognised by those following Cape Town football.

However, his early career was played against the backdrop of difficult circumstances, with Spurs suffering relegation that season. The following year in the Motsepe Foundation Championship was also challenging, as Baartman made just two starts in 12 appearances before earning a move to Kaizer Chiefs ahead of the 2025/26 season.

His first campaign at Amakhosi was another period of patience, with the youngster making only one start in seven appearances as more experienced players were often preferred.

That is why his inclusion in the starting XI for the opening match of the new season could prove to be a significant turning point.

Baartman offers Chiefs attacking creativity

While Baartman has endured a slower start to his senior career, his ability to carry the ball forward, beat defenders and create chances could make him an important player for Chiefs moving forward.

Although he currently operates on the left wing, he could eventually develop into a central attacking midfielder playing behind the strikers.

For now, his impressive display has seen him move ahead of Pule Mmodi on the left, while Ethan Chislett continues to occupy the No.10 role.

Reflecting on his struggles for game time last season, Baartman admitted that breaking into a competitive Chiefs squad was challenging.

“It’s good being a Kaizer Chiefs player, but it’s been tough for me not playing,” he said.

“There’s a lot of competition in the team, so I just need to continue working hard in training and on the field, and leave the rest up to the coaches.”

Baartman also believes strong competition within the squad can help improve everyone.

“When the people playing ahead of me are doing well, I also do well,” he added.

Could Baartman become a Bafana Bafana option?

A consistent run of matches for Chiefs could also bring Bafana Bafana into the conversation for Baartman as South Africa prepares for the next FIFA World Cup.

The youngster has already represented South Africa at youth level and impressed in the country’s junior national teams. With regular first-team football, a senior international opportunity could become a realistic next step.

For now, Baartman’s immediate focus will be helping Kaizer Chiefs continue their strong start, with their next challenge coming in the MTN8 quarter-final against Lamontville Golden Arrows next weekend.

The opening performance suggests Chiefs may have uncovered a player ready to make a much bigger impact.