Kaizer Chiefs will have to make do without one of their most influential attackers when they kick off their 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign against Stellenbosch FC this weekend.
Despite bolstering their squad during the off-season, Amakhosi will be without Pule Mmodi, who is serving a suspension carried over from last season.
Venue Change for Cape Town Clash
Chiefs will travel to Cape Town for Sunday’s encounter, but the venue has been switched from the DHL Stadium to Athlone Stadium. The hosts, Stellenbosch, are already match-sharp after starting their campaign in the MTN8 last weekend.
Steve Barker’s side edged AmaZulu 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling quarter-final at DHL Stadium, showing early signs of form. Chiefs, on the other hand, missed out on the MTN8 for a second successive season after finishing outside the top eight and will only now begin their league journey.
Mmodi Suspension a Blow for Nabi
Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi admitted that Mmodi’s absence is a setback.
“We are ready but just regretting the absence of Pule Mmodi for the first game because of suspension,” said Nabi. “He is an important player for us. But I need to give confidence to all the players to get a positive result.”
New Signings to Step Up
With Mmodi unavailable, Chiefs will look to their fresh recruits to make an impact. The club has brought in Ethan Chislett, Nkanyiso Shinga, Flavio Silva, Thabiso Monyane, Paseka Mako, and Siphesihle Ndlovu in a bid to strengthen their squad depth.
This opener could set the tone for Chiefs’ ambitions this season as they aim to challenge Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates and dethrone reigning champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Kaizer Chiefs Eye Strong Start Despite Early Setback
Kaizer Chiefs enter the new Betway Premiership season eager to prove their readiness to compete at the highest level, despite the early setback of losing Pule Mmodi to suspension. With a strengthened squad and fresh signings waiting to make their mark, Amakhosi have an opportunity to set a positive tone for the campaign. Their trip to Stellenbosch may be a tough opening test, but a strong performance could signal their intent to challenge both Orlando Pirates and defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns for league glory.
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