Kaizer Chiefs Face Tough Start Against Stellenbosch in Betway Premiership Opener
Kaizer Chiefs will start their 2025 Betway Premiership season with a tough match against Steve Barker’s Stellenbosch FC at Cape Town Stadium this Sunday. Chiefs had an unwanted weekend off due to their absence from the MTN8, leaving Amakhosi eager to bounce back. They finished ninth in the Premiership last season and need a strong start to improve their position.
Stellies Show Strong Form
Stellenbosch FC enters the match on the back of a thrilling 3-2 victory over AmaZulu in the MTN8 quarter-finals. Sanele Barns and Langelihle Phili’s extra-time goal secured Stellies’ spot in the semi-finals, where they will face Sekhukhune United. The team’s never-say-die attitude has helped them become one of the most resilient sides in the league.
Kaizer Chiefs’ Pre-season Struggles
Chiefs’ pre-season was far from ideal. They spent time training in the Netherlands and played in the Toyota Cup against Asante Kotoko. The match ended in a goalless draw, and Chiefs lost on penalties. Despite some positive performances, Chiefs failed to capitalise on their chances. This problem, familiar to fans, could be costly if they don’t address it soon.
Can Nabi Turn Chiefs’ Fortune Around?
Nabi guided Chiefs to their first trophy in a decade, the 2024 Nedbank Cup. However, the club needs more than one cup win. Chiefs must challenge for the Premiership title. Their first test against Stellenbosch could be a good indicator of their season. Fans are eager to see if Nabi can solve their goalscoring issues and lead them to glory
Former captain Willard Katsande believes the team is heading in the right direction. He told FarPost, “Everybody’s entitled to their opinion, but if you look at the bigger picture, they’re heading in the right direction.”
Transfer Targets to Solve Goalscoring Woes
Chiefs have reportedly shown interest in free-agent strikers Zakhele Lepasa and Dzenan Zajmovic. Zajmovic, who scored 11 goals for TS Galaxy last season, was released by the club. Lepasa, previously with Orlando Pirates, was also let go. Farouk Khan, former assistant coach at Chiefs, thinks both players could solve the team’s goalscoring problem. “If Lepasa is free, he’s a good gamble,” Khan said.
What This Means for Chiefs and Fans
The new season presents a chance for Chiefs to show improvement. The team needs to fix their goalscoring issues and build consistency. If Nabi can make the right adjustments, Amakhosi might become strong contenders for the Premiership title.
Check also: Orlando Pirates Set for Tough Battle Against Mamelodi Sundowns
Chiefs face a tough challenge in their opener against Stellenbosch. With a mix of new signings and a history of missed opportunities, Amakhosi will need to get off to a strong start. Can they solve their goalscoring problems and compete at the top? Fans will be watching closely.
