Du Preez Confident Kaizer Chiefs Can Compete for All Titles This Season
Kaizer Chiefs striker Ashley Du Preez has expressed strong belief that Amakhosi have the squad and mentality needed to contest for silverware across all competitions in the 2025/26 PSL season.
Eyeing a Return to Glory
As the highly anticipated Betway Premiership opener against Stellenbosch FC looms this Sunday at Athlone Stadium, Du Preez has boldly declared that Chiefs are ready to push for league and cup honours alike.
“I believe we’re capable of challenging for everything this season – not just the league but every cup as well,” he said, underscoring the growing confidence within the squad.
Du Preez, now entering his third season with the club, is banking on the momentum gained during their intensive pre-season trip to the Netherlands.
Dutch Pre-Season Boost Fuels Belief
Reflecting on their international camp, the 28-year-old forward said the trip played a key role in shaping a unified and competitive team spirit.
“The Netherlands pre-season really helped us – from the matches we played to the overall energy and togetherness in camp,” he explained. “We competed well against strong European sides and that gave us a good indication of where we are as a team.”
He noted that the team’s collective mindset heading into the season is aligned: “We’ve all got the same focus and hunger – and I can feel the excitement throughout the squad.”
Personal Motivation Against Former Club
Sunday’s clash carries additional meaning for Du Preez, who made the move from Stellenbosch to Chiefs in 2022. Known for rising to the occasion against his former employers, he previously found the net against them in both the MTN8 and league fixtures.
“Playing against Stellies always brings out something special in me,” he said. “That’s where I built my career, and I’ll always be grateful – but now I’m fully focused on helping Chiefs succeed.”
With the fixture taking place in Cape Town, Du Preez feels at ease and ready to make an impact.
“I know the conditions well, and I’m in the right headspace. I’m ready to contribute with goals and assists, that’s the kind of start I want.”
Respect for Stellies, but No Fear
Despite his confidence, Du Preez is under no illusion about the challenge ahead. Stellenbosch FC have emerged as one of the most consistent teams in recent seasons, finishing third in the last two league campaigns. Their recent 3-2 win over AmaZulu in the MTN8 quarter-finals further highlights their threat.
“They’re a strong side, playing with sharpness and intensity. It’s definitely not going to be an easy match,” Du Preez admitted. “But we’ve had success against them before, and we’ll be ready again.”
Chiefs managed to defeat Stellenbosch in all three meetings last season, and Du Preez is confident they can build on that track record.
Season of Ambition for Amakhosi
With a rejuvenated squad, a productive pre-season, and an optimistic locker room, Ashley Du Preez believes that Kaizer Chiefs are heading into the new season with the right tools to compete for everything on offer.
“This is the year we want to turn things around and make our supporters proud again,” he said. “The belief is there – now it’s about execution.”
As the 2025/26 campaign gets underway, all eyes will be on Amakhosi to see if they can finally deliver on the promise and passion their fans have long craved.
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