Kaizer Chiefs will be facing Chippa United in what is being described as a must-win game for the Amakhosi as they seek to pick up their league form.
Coach Nasreddine Nabi is under pressure to turn the tide as the team hasn’t seen victory outside of one match against Richards Bay back at the start of November. The Chiefs currently find themselves at the bottom of the table with no clean sheets this season, which they aim to improve against Chippa on Sunday evening at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, with kick-off set for 17:45 CAT.
"I want Chiefs supporters and management to be happy by us collecting more points. To collect more points, we need consistent performances in our games," said Nabi, putting pressure on his squad to deliver. On Chippa's side, coach Kwanele Kopo remains optimistic, saying, "We need to play well and get a result against Chiefs... Are Chiefs beatable? I think yes, they are. Anyone in the league is beatable this season." Chippa has struggled as well, managing just one win out of their last three matches.
Meanwhile, the Peter Mokaba Stadium, following extensive damage done during the recent Makhadzi One Women show, will be out of action for at least another month. The city’s mayor, John Mpe, reported the venue would require significant restoration, affecting at least four matches scheduled throughout January. "Following a detailed assessment, it was determined ... for hosting professional football matches," read the official statement.
This venue shift forces matches to relocate to the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, maintaining continuity for the teams involved, including Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants.
Several key players across the league are set to miss the upcoming fixtures due to suspensions. Orlando Pirates’ Tshegofatso Mabasa, who netted three goals against Marumo Gallants, will miss the clash against Magesi FC after collecting his fourth yellow card. The team is seeking to maintain their position with other players needing to step up.
Stellenbosch FC’s Sihle Nduli also faces suspension after accumulating cards, which leaves his side shorthanded. Sundowns’ goalkeeper Ronwen Williams will be unavailable as he serves his suspension due to being sent off against AmaZulu FC. The depth of each team will truly be tested as they navigate these absences.
On Saturday, Golden Arrows and Polokwane City proved their mettle with neither side able to break through, resulting in a tense 0-0 draw at the Mpumalanga Stadium. Both teams pressed for goals, but persistent defense from each side kept the net unbroken. Polokwane's Raymond Daniels and Ryan Moon showed early promise, yet neither squad could capitalize on scoring opportunities as the teams trade possession throughout.
While focus shifts back to the big fixture for Chiefs against Chippa, the ramifications of player unavailability and the stadium closure continue to loom over this weekend’s matches.
