The anticipation is palpable as Kaizer Chiefs gear up for their Betway Premiership opener against Marumo Gallants at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.
With seven new signings bolstering the squad, fans are eager to see how coach Nasreddine Nabi will integrate these fresh faces into his starting XI.
Here’s our predicted lineup for Chiefs’ first Betway Premiership match, taking into account the new additions and the team’s tactical approach.
FORMATION: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: • Fiacre Ntwari: The Rwandan international is high on confidence after his stellar performances for Amavubi in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. The reliable shot-stopper, who recently joined Chiefs from TS Galaxy, is expected to start in between the sticks.
Defenders: • Reeve Frosler [Right-back]: Frosler has had a full pre-season and looks likely to get the nod. His experience and defensive solidity make him an asset on the right flank. Dillan Solomons, his main competitor, missed the first part of pre-season due to injury.
• Given Msimango [Centre-back]: A composed and experienced defender, Msimango could get the nod ahead of Miguel Inacio, who joined the club halfway through pre-season. The Bafana Bafana defender has had a good pre-season and will provide stability at the back.
• Rushwin Dortley [Centre-back]: Signed from Cape Town Spurs, the 22-year-old represents the future. His recent two outings in Bafana Bafana would have shown Nabi what he is capable of. The new signing is expected to slot in seamlessly alongside Msimango, forming a formidable partnership.
• Bradley Cross [Left-back]: While Happy Mashiane and Bongani Sam have had a better pre-season, Cross offers more defensive solidity. The 23-year-old is strong on the tackle, has good anticipation, and reads the game very well. The former Newcastle Under 23 captain times his interceptions well and proved his superior decision-making at Golden Arrows. While he doesn’t always provide width, he enjoys combination play and drifts inside a lot.
WHO WILL LIKELY START IN MIDFIELD?
Midfielders: • Samkelo Zwane [Defensive Midfielder]: Arguably, Chiefs’ most technical player. However, he lacked the aggression of a defensive midfielder and the ability to dominate games. These are elements one would have expected the new technical team to work on. The young midfielder’s energy and creativity will add dynamism to the team. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball effectively will be vital in controlling the midfield.
• Yusuf Maart [Central Midfielder]: Last season, when FARPost asked Maart his favoured position, he said 8. With Zwane playing as the CDM, Maart, who also serves as captain, will likely fill in as an 8. The Maart of Sekhukhune United was superior in terms of game management and progressive passing. He often packed shots from outside the box. Maart created scoring opportunities for his teammates.
• Mduduzi Shabalala [Attacking Midfielder]: The Chiefs academy graduate had a good pre-season. He starts the season high on confidence, having scored a brace in the 2-0 friendly win over SuperSport last weekend. His dribbling skills and creativity will be a constant threat to the opposition’s defence.
Forwards:
• Gaston Sirino [Right Winger]: The new signing is expected to bring flair and goals to the right wing. Sirino brings goals, creativity, and big-match temperament. The former Mamelodi Sundowns is a clear upgrade across the front line for Amakhosi.
• Pule Mmodi [Left Winger]: His trickery and directness will provide width and attacking options on the left.
• Ranga Chivaviro [Striker]: The former Marumo Gallants striker will be tasked with leading the line and finding the back of the net. He will be hoping to rediscover the form that attracted the Soweto giants.
NEW SIGNINGS IMPACT AT KAIZER CHIEFS
Inacio and Njabulo Blom could also feature in the later stages of the game. Blom rejoined his boyhood club a fortnight ago and may gradually be introduced. His arrival will likely help Nabi manage the development of Zwane.
The blend of seasoned players and promising youngsters provides a balance of experience and energy. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to observe how this lineup evolves and adapts to the challenges ahead.
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