Kaizer Chiefs Kick Off Season With Crucial Clash Against Resilient Stellenbosch | OneFootball

Amakhosi face early test as Nabi eyes strong start despite pre-season struggles

Kaizer Chiefs begin their 2025 Betway Premiership campaign with high stakes away clash against Steve Barker’s in form Stellenbosch FC this Sunday at Cape Town Stadium.

Will Chiefs break be blessing or burden?

Chiefs were sidelined during the MTN8 quarter finals last weekend, a break that gave them valuable time to prepare but could also mean they lack competitive sharpness.

Meanwhile Stellenbosch arrive full of momentum after edging AmaZulu 3 - 2 in extra time to reach the MTN8 semi finals.

Nabi’s mission: Turn potential into consistency

After disappointing 9th place finish last season, pressure's mounting on Nasreddine Nabi to bring league success. Despite lifting the 2024 Nedbank cup, the club’s decade long title drought in the Premiership remains major concern.

Chiefs endured turbulent pre season. Their camp in the Netherlands and Toyota cup outing against Asante Kotoko produced more questions than answers .. 6 defeat and another goalless display followed by penalty loss have left fans frustrated by recurring scoring woes.

Nabi, however insists his side will fight for every game across all competitions including the CAF Confederation cup and the Carling Knockout. But early league form could define his tenure especially with management expecting immediate results.

Can new signings deliver spark?

Chiefs brought in 6 new player but chemistry remains work in progress. In attack, the club's reportedly chasing free agents Zakhele Lepasa & Dzenan Zajmovic to solve their finishing problems.

Ex assistant coach Farouk Khan believes both could offer solutions:

Stellies seek revenge for last season’s pain

Steve Barker’s side suffered three losses to Chiefs in all competitions last term , a record the coach admits still stings.

His young side bolstered by breakout stars like Langelihle Phili & Sanele Barns is showing resilience and hunger. Phili who netted the MTN8 winner off the bench, may have to wait behind Barns again but Barker believes the 20 year old can have breakthrough season.

Stellenbosch’s hopes also hinge on whether new foreign signings Turan Mantov & Henri Stanic secure work permits in time for Sunday’s showdown.