Latest news with #SowetoDerby
The South African
2 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Chiefs vs Pirates? No Soweto Derby until 2026
The fixtures for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership have been released, revealing that Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will only meet each other in 2026. Last season, these two iconic teams of South African football faced off three times. The Buccaneers won two of those matches, while Amakhosi took the last victory in May. In their first encounter earlier this year at the FNB Stadium, Pirates secured a narrow 1-0 win with a late penalty. In the reverse fixture, the Sea Robbers completed a double by winning 2-1. The two teams met again on 10 May at the sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium, where the Chiefs emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, ending their trophy drought. The first Soweto Derby of the season is scheduled for 28 February 2026 at 15:00, with the reverse fixture set for 25 April 2026. In their last six encounters, Amakhosi have managed to defeat Pirates only once and will be eager to break this losing streak in the league. The two teams could potentially face each other before 28 February if they are drawn against each other in a cup competition. As Amakhosi are not participating in the MTN8, the only chance for them to play against Pirates before that date is in the Carling Knockout Cup. The last time Chiefs and Pirates faced each other in the CKO was back in 2019, where the Glamour Boys won 4-2 on penalties after the match ended 2-2. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Daily Maverick
08-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Maverick
Elevating the game: Carling Black Label connects local fans to the world's biggest stage
In South Africa, football goes beyond sport –it has become a source of unity, identity and pride. An inheritance passed down through generations, played in backyards, watched on township screens and argued about on taxi rides and in local bars. Its energy is in the chants on the stands, the pride in the jersey and the belief that the fan is as much a part of the match as the players on the pitch. From the Soweto Derby to midweek Premier Soccer League (PSL) clashes under flickering floodlights, local football is stitched into the national fabric. It's messy, passionate and unfiltered, and it is where talent is spotted barefoot, where coaches become uncles, and fans become part of the experience. Now, as South Africa's domestic champions step onto the global stage at the FIFA Club World Cup, another story is being written, one that centres on the teams and the people behind them – the fans. The ones who've stayed loyal through seasons of near misses and moments of glory. As part of South African Breweries' 130-year legacy, the brand has pioneered a uniquely fan-first approach that continues to redefine what sponsorship means. This journey is now taking a global turn as Carling Black Label partners with the Mamelodi Sundowns in the FIFA Club World Cup under the powerful banner: Champions to the World. Carling Black Label has had an enduring relationship with the game and an ongoing, deepening commitment to empowering local voices. It has long recognised that its true strength lies in the people who stand behind the sport, the passionate, knowledgeable and deeply invested fans. More than 91% of the brand's core audience follow local football and now Carling Black Label has responded by giving them real influence. Through groundbreaking initiatives like the Carling Cup, fans have been empowered to pick teams, call the shots and experience the game from the technical bench. What started as an opportunity to coach Soweto's giants has evolved into the reimagined Carling Cup and the birth of the Carling All Stars, an entire team selected by fans alone. This evolution speaks to SAB's commitment to remain freshly consistent when it comes to innovation: never standing still, always listening, and always building on what fans value the most. In the lead-up to the FIFA Club World Cup, a tournament which brings together 32 of the best teams from around the world, Carling Black Label has introduced the Score Predictor. It's a digital platform which allows fans to forecast match results, recognising and rewarding the discerning knowledge of the Champion Fans. One of the biggest of these is an all-expenses-paid trip to watch the team that will be crowned the winners of the Fifa Club World Cup at their home stadium. The Score Predictor is a smart move for the brand. It celebrates the importance of fans in sport. And it validates their passion and expertise by giving them the opportunity to make predictions across 64 games. It's a clever digital tool that acknowledges the extraordinary amount of local knowledge and community commitment in South Africa and puts it on the global stage. The campaign isn't only about global access, however, it is also focused on local impact as Carling Black Label becomes a vehicle for a deeper social purpose. The brand understands its role and responsibility in shaping positive narratives, leaning into its market and celebrating positive masculinity which is anchored in respect, responsibility and leadership. Over the years, this focus has translated into programmes that have had significant influence and impact. In collaboration with the PSL, Carling Black Label commits to use Soccer as an influence for good through offering tools and mentorship for Players and soccer fans. efforts are grounded in the belief that there is gold in every bottle and in every man who chooses to lead with purpose. And through the SAB Sharp programme, this message is backed by a commitment to responsible drinking and ethical conduct. Through fan-first innovation and a purposeful brand vision, Carling Black Label has entertained and empowered, bringing Champion Fans closer to the game, providing platforms for their voices, and challenging the world to see South African football and masculinity through a different lens. The Champions of the World campaign is a culmination of over a decade of building trust, igniting pride and delivering value beyond the pitch. By blending consistent fan access with innovative experiences, the brand remains committed to pushing boundaries and creating platforms which reflect the power of sport as a force for good. DM
IOL News
07-07-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Quiet captain, loud legacy: Yusuf Maart's unseen value at Kaizer Chiefs
Criticised for being too quiet, Yusuf Maart leaves Kaizer Chiefs as the only captain in a decade to lift a trophy — a legacy built on resilience, not rhetoric. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix COMMENT Yusuf Maart is not a man of many words — and perhaps that's why his presence and personality sometimes defied expectations of a Kaizer Chiefs captain. Chiefs are one of the biggest sporting brands in South Africa, and as such, their leaders are expected to command presence the moment they walk into a room. Unfortunately for Maart — who is reportedly on his way to Austrian club SV Ried, despite recently renewing his contract — he wasn't always perceived as that kind of figure. By the time he was being judged for his leadership qualities both on and off the pitch, alongside his performances, many had already made up their minds. He wasn't everyone's cup of tea. 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 Accused of being 'too soft' to captain Chiefs, Maart also suffered dips in form — as every player does — but his quieter personality made him an easy target for criticism. That combination resulted in a complicated, often harsh, love-hate relationship with fans. There were times he could do no right. When he missed a penalty against Golden Arrows last season in a 2-1 loss, it was spoken about more than the match itself — and instead of being remembered as a missed equaliser, it became the focal point of frustration. Yet for all his misfortune, Maart wore his heart on his sleeve. He captained Chiefs with pride and resolve, and he remains the only player to have led the club to silverware in the past 10 years. Under his captaincy, Chiefs won the Nedbank Cup last season — their first major trophy since 2015. And not only did he lift the cup, but he also delivered the winning goal in the final against his former team, Orlando Pirates. In a country where fans may forgive most defeats — except to arch-rivals — Maart stepped up when it mattered most. His stunning long-range strike in the Soweto Derby three seasons ago earned Chiefs three points and bragging rights, further cementing his value to the club. As he prepares to exit Naturena, Maart won't just reflect on goals and trophies. He was selfless — often the sacrificial lamb in difficult moments. Amid pressure from fans and mounting scrutiny on coach Nasreddine Nabi, Maart was benched for parts of the season. But instead of sulking, he accepted the decision and supported his teammates loudly from the sidelines — a mark of quiet, unshakable leadership. Deputy captain Inacio Miguel paid him the ultimate respect ahead of the Nedbank Cup final. 'I have huge respect for Yusuf. Yusuf is my captain. I respect him a lot. He has a lot of leadership skills,' Miguel said. 'I don't see any difference when it's me or him wearing the armband. We're two great leaders. He gives the face of the team; he never hides. He has a lot of personality and character. I love him a lot.'
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.
