Khune Criticizes Bvuma for Ignoring Advice, but Chiefs Keeper Remains Focused on the Team

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma has diplomatically responded to criticism from Itumeleng Khune, who claimed that Bvuma would have reached greater heights had he taken his advice earlier in his career.

The 37-year-old Khune, a long-time Kaizer Chiefs icon and former Bafana Bafana number one, pointed out that Mamelodi Sundowns’ Ronwen Williams took his guidance and is now the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper. In contrast, Khune believes Bvuma did not heed similar advice and is paying the price for it.

“Ronwen listened to me, and look at where he is now. Bvuma didn’t, and that’s why he’s still struggling,” Khune was quoted as saying. His remarks stirred debate, especially given his influence on younger goalkeepers during his peak years.

However, Bvuma has responded with composure, choosing not to escalate the situation. Speaking to iDiski Times, Bvuma said, “What he has done for the country is very big. I respect him. I do talk to him; I do talk to Itu, and whatever happened happened. What he said, he said.”

“My focus is the team; my focus is me doing well for the team and also making sure that I play to my full potential,” he added.

Despite not starting the season as first choice—Fiacre Ntwari was the initial favourite—Bvuma has worked his way into the starting lineup. So far this campaign, he has made 21 appearances and kept eight clean sheets. His performances have been key in Chiefs’ push for silverware and a top-eight league finish.

A strong finish to the season, particularly with the Nedbank Cup final on the horizon, could put Bvuma in contention for a national team recall, possibly alongside or in place of Ronwen Williams and Sipho Chaine.

Kaizer Chiefs’ focus now shifts to their remaining fixtures: a clash with Marumo Gallants on April 26, followed by a Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates on May 3. The highly anticipated Nedbank Cup final, their only shot at silverware this season, will be played on May 10.

As the team chases both a trophy and a respectable league finish, Bvuma seems intent on blocking out distractions and letting his performances speak for themselves.