Latest news with #SowetoDerby
The South African
13-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Three Orlando Pirates players who should be given a fair chance
Orlando Pirates have released four players to make space for more ahead of the new season. The Buccaneers finished second in the Betway Premiership last season and also secured their third successive MTN8 title. Under Jose Riveiro, Pirates won five trophies in three seasons, but the Spaniard has since departed to join Egyptian giants Al Ahly. Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season, the Buccaneers are without a coach and have released four players in the past weeks. With experienced players such as Makhehlene Makhaula, Olisa Ndah and Tapelo Xoki, Orlando Pirates still have experience and could build on next season. With Mamelodi Sundowns competing in the FIFA Club World Cup, this is the perfect chance for the Soweto giants to go into the transfer market and sign top players around the continent. With more signings to come, the Buccaneers have to ensure they don't release impact players. Tshegofatso Mabasa Mabasa only scored seven goals in the league last season. The 28-year-old striker needs to be backed ahead of Evidence Makgopa ahead of the new campaign. An in-form Mabasa is more lethal and can score atleast 15 goals in the league alone, given the right service and backing. Thabiso Lebitso Lebitso played 13 matches across all competitions in his debut season for the Buccaneers. He famously scored in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs last year, helping his side to a 3-2 victory at the FNB Stadium. Unfortunately, injuries halted his season and forced him to watch from the sidelines. This past season, Lebitso played just two matches and all his appearances came in the CAF Champions League. With Deano van Rooyen having secured the right-back position, Lebitso is a perfect replacement. He should feature more, given how many matches the Sea Robbers will play next season. Karim Kimvuidi Kimvuidi is no doubt one of the Orlando Pirates players who have impressed when making an appearance. The Congolese attacker only made eight league showing but many Bucs fans feel like he should be given a fair chance. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Kaizer Chiefs may yet reap more rewards from Thabo Cele signing
Kaizer Chiefs star midfielder Thabo Cele is using his popularity gained with joining the Soweto giants to uplift his community. | BackpagePix Image: Backpagepix OUT of all the Premier Soccer League (PSL) 2024/2025 mid-season signings, Kaizer Chiefs arguably caught the biggest fish with the arrivals of Durban-born midfielder Thabo Cele and Congolese forward Makabi Lilepo. Both players were announced by the Naturena-based club at the end of January, along with Tashreeq Morris. Cele went on to play 11 league matches and Lilepo 14, but their biggest achievement of the season was helping their side win the Nedbank Cup – ending the 10-year trophy drought for the Soweto giants. 'My coming to Kaizer Chiefs was under one mission; that is to win trophies. We know that Kaizer Chiefs is the biggest club in the country. Even though we haven't been winning trophies, everyone knows that Chiefs is a team of trophies,' Cele remarked to the Durban media that attended the launch of his off-season youth games in his township of KwaMashu on Thursday. KWAMASHU'S FINEST: Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele and Thalente Mbatha in action in the Soweto Derby at the FNB Stadium. Image: Archived Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The Thabo Thalente Games, which the Chiefs midfielder started with his Orlando Pirates counterpart and neighbour (they both come from G-Section in KwaMashu) Thalente Mbatha, consist of four sporting codes; football as the flagship, followed by netball, chess and umlabalaba (Zulu board game). 'This programme is more about trying to assist in finding solutions for our society against the ills. As we start, not everything is clear, and we were not even sure of the right time, but as you can see, people are appreciating the initiative. The vision is to help the community, and especially the young ones, and goes beyond many generations,' said Cele. Explaining the reason to go beyond football with their initiative, he added: 'In KwaMashu, football is the number-one sport. 'As a matter of fact, football is number one in the whole world. So, we thought it would be beautiful to open it wider and accommodate other sporting codes. 'I find myself growing interested in more sporting codes; I find myself watching tennis and your Tour de France and so on. 'The aim is to bring people together, so we tried to include everyone. 'We want people to take the initiative and embrace this project as theirs. It belongs to them and their community. The growth of it is upon them.' Indeed, there may have been no better time for Cele and Mbatha to start something of this nature since the 2024/2025 season saw them grow their popularity and meet up in three Soweto derbies. Cele in particular has in the past four months of his life at Chiefs become probably the most popular figure in the dressing room with his coaches and teammates and fans alike. 'It's been a blessing (his Chiefs' life). I am someone who is spiritual, so I do understand that what has happened (for me) in the past six months is not only up to my strengths. It's been a blessing, and I'm grateful also for the people I work with,' said the midfielder. 'At Kaizer Chiefs, everyone (who works there) is involved: from the workers who cut the grass for us, the ladies who cook for us, all the way to office administrators. 'All of us contribute to the progress of the team. So yes, the past five to six months have been a blessing.' With Chiefs, though, there's an elephant in the room: the future of Tunisian coach Nasreddine Nabi. Immediately after winning the Nedbank Cup, there were reports that Nabi was going to be let go, and undertake the last season in his two-year contract. 'Things that are spoken outside are simply that, external matters. We focus on what we have to deal with, which is taking the club forward,' Cele responded when probed about the matter.
The South African
10-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs launch transfers ahead of Netherlands tour
Kaizer Chiefs have wasted no time strengthening their squad as they prepare for a crucial pre-season tour to the Netherlands in July. With plans to return to domestic dominance, the club has made decisive moves in the transfer market, securing key targets and cutting loose those who no longer fit the vision under head coach Nasreddine Nabi, according to iDiski digital paper. After enduring a challenging first season, Nabi managed to end Amakhosi's long-standing trophy drought by lifting the Nedbank Cup in a high-stakes Soweto Derby, derailing Orlando Pirates' dreams of a historic cup treble. This hard-earned silverware has given Chiefs fresh impetus to restructure the team aggressively. 'Winning the Nedbank Cup was a turning point,' said a club insider. 'But the work has just begun.' In a ruthless shake-up, Sabelo Radebe, Njabulo Blom (following the end of his loan), and Ranga Chivaviro (whose option was not exercised for the 2025/2026 season) have all exited Kaizer Chiefs. Uncertainty looms over several others, including George Matlou, Teboho Potsane, Zitha Kwinika, Fiacre Ntwari, and Samkelo Zwane. Chiefs are reportedly considering loan deals for fringe players and emerging prospects as they balance squad depth with competitive edge. The club has set its sights on a number of fresh talents, including goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, who could be heading to Azam FC in Tanzania, the very club from which Chiefs are chasing midfield maestro Feisul Salum. There were also early discussions surrounding a potential move involving Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United, but talks have seemingly stalled, with the Nigerian shot-stopper eyeing a European switch instead. Chiefs' interest in Ime Okon remains strong. The 21-year-old defensive ace is available on a free transfer and is seen as a major boost to Nabi's backline. However, they face stiff competition from rivals Mamelodi Sundowns, who rate him highly as one of the brightest young defenders in the PSL. Reports indicate that Thabiso Monyane signed with Amakhosi two weeks ago after his contract expired at Orlando Pirates. He might not be the only one making the switch across Soweto, Paseka Mako has also been linked to Chiefs, potentially forming a revamped full-back duo. Former Sundowns star Sipho Mbule is also on Chiefs' radar. His agent, Mike Makaab, confirmed that his client has been offered to the club following the expiry of his contract. A deal could bolster Nabi's midfield options with experience and creativity. Additionally, conversations have opened with several Europe-based Bafana Bafana internationals, who are weighing up returns to the South African top flight. Chiefs' growing ambition could make them an attractive destination. Finding a reliable target man has been a top priority for Nabi. With limited options locally, Chiefs are closing in on Etiosa Ighodaro. A powerful forward who has spent the last six years on the books of Sundowns, including loan spells at AmaTuks, Chippa United, SuperSport United, and AmaZulu. Now reportedly eligible for registration as a local player, Ighodaro is inching closer to a Naturena move. A source close to the club stated, 'He fits what Nabi wants up front, strength, movement, and goals.' Should Chiefs secure Ighodaro on a free, it could spark tensions with Chloorkop. But signal a major statement of intent from the Soweto giants. Who should Kaizer Chiefs sign for next season? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
10-06-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Rival too late to hijack Kaizer Chiefs signing of Orlando Pirates star!
Kaizer Chiefs have reportedly wrapped up an agreement to sign a player recently released by arch rivals Orlando Pirates. Chiefs are looking to complete a couple of their signings before heading off to the Netherlands next month for preseason. Earlier on Tuesday, this publication reported that Chiefs had reached an agreement to sign Thabiso Monyane from Pirates . The move looks to have progressed very quickly with the player offered to Amakhosi just last week Friday. On Monday evening the reports moved to say the negotiations between both parties were advanced. The deal to sign Monyane seems to have been done right on the nick of time. This is because, according to Soccer-Laduma , Sekhukhune United were also interested in signing the right-back ahead of Chiefs! 'At just 25 years old, the talented player is already attracting interest from several PSL clubs, with Sekhukhune United understood to be expressing firm interest, while Kaizer Chiefs have also been linked to the player in recent reports. Sekhukhune are said to be keen on acquiring his services ahead of the 2025/26 season. The club, known for its ambitious recruitment strategy and strong defensive foundation, could offer Monyane the platform to regain form and rediscover the consistency that once earmarked him as one of South Africa's brightest defensive prospects. Meanwhile, a potential move to Kaizer Chiefs, a club currently in the midst of a squad overhaul, would not only keep Monyane in the spotlight but also add an extra layer of drama to Soweto Derby narratives.' Wrote the publication. Chiefs fans who wanted to see Monyane cross the floor from Pirates don't have anything to worry about though. The 25-year-old clearly had the preference to become a glamour boy and wrapped up a deal before Sekhukhune could hijack it. Chiefs fans, are you happy that Monyane chose your club instead of Sekhukhune? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@ or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
IOL News
30-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Too many chiefs and not enough Indians
Catch them young - Egan Naidoo's son Ruven will be sure to cheer for Liverpool FC. Image: Supplied THEY were as scarce as minibus taxi drivers who use indicators. There were hardly enough of them to form a WhatsApp group chat. In fact, I've seen more of them waiting in line for a free tasting of spicy Nagiah's sausages on a Saturday morning. Who am I talking about? I'm referring to the number of Indians who actually attended South Africa's premier club soccer knockout tournament for the fiercely-contested Nedbank Cup at Durban's Moses Mabhida Stadium a fortnight ago. The riveting match saw Kaizer Chiefs ending a painful 10-year trophy drought when it clinched a 2-1 victory over Orlando Pirates. And only a handful of Indians were among the 60 000 spectators. One 12-pack of Amstel would have been more than sufficient to keep the spirits up of the sum total of charou football fans who made the effort to attend the Soweto Derby where they were inconspicuous as a drop of water in the ocean - or like needles in a haystack. Meanwhile, at the same time, thousands of South African Indians, a spiritous drink in hand, would have been watching Southampton vs Man City, Fulham vs Everton or Ipswich Town vs Brentford on television at home, at Clive Pillay's 501 Sports Bar in Chatsworth, or T's Action Bar in Phoenix. Now what is it that induces local Indians to support English Premier League football, or even European soccer for that matter, more than they do South African Premier Soccer League matches? Local Indian football fans can rattle off the names of all the Liverpool and Manchester United players - and the reserve squads. Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ They have at their fingertips all personal information about European footballers, including age, nationality, contract duration and market value, and I won't be surprised, even their partners' names. Yet most of them will not be able to recite volubly the names of more than two or three players with individual PSL teams, or even Bafana Bafana to boot (pun unintended). Local fans of European football, much like their counterparts around the globe, can be incredibly passionate about their favourite teams, sometimes to the point of obsession. Check out the wash lines in Indian suburbs the day after a major match and you will see either Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid or FC Barcelona shirts hung out to dry. Some die-hard supporters tattoo their team's logo, name their children after players, or refuse to associate with supporters of rival teams. I know of fanatical followers who will travel across the world to back their team in a cup final. Yet, they will not buy a stadium ticket for Soccer City or Moses Mabhida for a major PSL game. Obsessed football fans see their club as part of their identity, leading to intense rivalries and sometimes irrational hatred toward opposing teams. Football games stimulate an emotional rollercoaster: wins bring euphoria, while losses can lead to frustration and even anger. The emotional highs and lows deepen their connection to the sport. There is big business in football teams' fan paraphernalia - jerseys, scarves, t-shirts, tracksuits, caps, hoodies, jackets, ties, socks, watches and jewellery. Some take their obsession to another level and will even sport (pun unintended again) underwear with Liverpool's logo, the mythical liver bird, or Man United's ship and lion with a helmet. Whether those Y-fronts or briefs with team badges enhance bedroom performance during nocturnal goal-scoring games is the stuff of fantasy and fanaticism. My opinion. Devotion to football clubs starts early - and can continue for a whole lifetime. Children and adults alike will have birthday cakes made up in the colours and logos of their beloved teams. Liverpool is known as The Reds, after the colour of their kits, so when faced with a choice of colours for a new car, no prizes for guessing what hue those who mumble "You'll Never Walk Alone" in their sleep, will choose. The adoration of football clubs continues well into death for some fans. Coffins are often draped in the colours of the favourite team. Visit the Mobeni Heights cemetery and you will see several headstones that celebrate the spirit of football fans. Speaking for thousands of local Indians who are European football buffs, Egan Naidoo who is an ardent Liverpool admirer said local PSL teams were not disrespected outright because they produced some immense talent that has even been exported to foreign clubs. However, the emotional connection to European clubs, he said, was due to greater global exposure, high-quality matches, captivating narratives, and star players. Naidoo said the English Premier League was extensively televised and streamed, making it easily accessible to local Indian audiences. This constant exposure has introduced fans to the league and its clubs, fostering a sense of familiarity. He said football leagues throughout Africa were under-funded and lacked strong talent development, causing Africans to follow European football tournaments more than they support their own at home. Also, young family members were influenced by the older generation, reinforcing loyalty as fathers passed the baton of English football clubs to their sons. Naidoo added that there is a South African connection at Liverpool's home stadium Anfield. The most iconic stand within it is the Spion Kop, renowned for its atmosphere and is a symbol of Liverpool's passionate fanbase. The name "Kop" originates from the Battle of Spion Kop near Ladysmith in January 1900 where many soldiers from Liverpool were killed by Boers. The South African Indian community has a long and vibrant history of supporting local football - but mostly teams that had majority white players such as Durban City and Durban United and Indian players such as Manning Rangers, Berea, Avalon Athletics, Bluebells United, Swaraj, Verulam Suburbs and Tongaat Crusaders. Curries Fountain stadium in Durban was once the mecca of non-racial soccer during a time of racial segregation. As these clubs disintegrated mainly through lack of sponsorship, and faded into oblivion, Indian soccer fans rooted more for overseas clubs than local teams that comprised mostly Black players. And such patronage has nothing to do with racism but brand football fans like to support world brands. The English Premier League has effectively built a strong brand which is reflected in its consistent focus on delivering high-quality football, attracting top talent, and engaging with diverse audiences. . Many European clubs also enjoy tremendous brand strength. Real Madrid which is reputedly worth $6.6 billion is not only the world's strongest football club brand but also ranks among the strongest brands globally, surpassing renowned names like Google, Coca-Cola, Ferrari, and Rolex. Real Madrid's strategic investments in star players like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham has boosted its revenue through increased matchday and merchandise sales, while enhancing global visibility and fan engagement. While South Africa boasts strong national cricket and rugby teams, the national football team Bafana Bafana is doing something wrong and is placed 56th in FIFA world rankings. The 2010 FIFA World Cup had mixed effects on soccer in South Africa. While it boosted domestic infrastructure, including new stadiums and improved public transport, it did not lead to significant improvements in Bafana Bafana's performance. When the national football team plays badly, any wonder then why local football fans look abroad for entertainment? Yogin Devan Image: Supplied Yogin Devan is a media consultant and social commentator. Share your comments with him on: yogind@ ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media. THE POST
