Kaizer Chiefs head coach Fernando Da Cruz has had several weeks to assess his squad during the club’s pre-season tour of Spain, and Sunday could provide the clearest indication yet of his preferred starting XI.
Amakhosi take on Scottish giants Scotland FC in the Toyota Cup at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg, with the encounter serving as their final major test before the 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign.
Chiefs begin their league season away to newcomers Kruger United, and Da Cruz will be eager to build momentum with a convincing performance in front of the club’s supporters.
The Soweto giants have strengthened their squad with the arrivals of defender Thabo Moloisane, goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner and Tanzanian midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa Bitegeko. More additions are expected before the transfer window closes.
Several players have also departed Naturena, including Aden McCarthy, George Matlou, Happy Mashiane, Tashreeq Morris and Gaston Sirino.
There is still uncertainty surrounding the futures of Glody Lilepo, Thabo Cele and Ashley Du Preez.
Cele and Lilepo were both left out of the squad that travelled to Spain for pre-season. Da Cruz later confirmed that Cele was not part of his plans, while Lilepo is attracting interest from clubs elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Du Preez continues to be linked with a move away, with reports suggesting Kaizer Chiefs could use the forward as part of a deal to sign Stellenbosch FC winger Langelihle Phili.
With selection decisions now looming, Sunday’s Toyota Cup fixture is expected to offer a strong indication of the team Da Cruz intends to rely on when the new Premiership season gets underway.
Kaizer Chiefs coach not a fan of Cele?
“First for, Lilepo has other opportunities elsewhere and the management is open to listen [to offers],” Da Cruz explained as per FARPost.
“For Thabo Cele we have a lot of players in his position and I prefer other profiles and for the moment he’s not on my plans
Kaizer Chiefs open their league season against Kruger United on 1 August.
