Kaizer Chiefs coach Steve Komphela has downplayed the idea that Teenage Hadebe’s absence on Saturday cost his side the match against Orlando Pirates.

Hadebe was left out of the squad that lost 3-1 after he failed a late fitness test. He suffered a knock on his ankle against Cape Town City three weeks ago.

According to KickOff.com, a South African football website, Komphela has explained why the former Chicken Inn player might not have made much of a difference in the line-up.

“I wouldn’t say [Hadebe’s absence was felt]. If you look at how the first goal came about, and you want to factor Hadebe in there, you would say, ‘But it’s one of those mistakes possible in any match’,” argued Komphela.

“The second goal at the beginning of the second half – I don’t remember if we touched the ball or not – how would you factor Hadebe in there?

“In eight seconds they hit the back of the net.

“So, when you look at it, you can’t really say the Hadebe factor could have been, but would it have made a difference? You never know. It can only be said with benefit of hindsight.”