Kaizer Chiefs begin Betway Premiership campaign against newcomers Kruger United

Kaizer Chiefs will start their Betway Premiership season away to newly promoted Kruger United at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday evening, with new head coach Fernando Da Cruz naming his first competitive starting XI.

The Soweto giants finished third in the 2025/26 campaign, behind their rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, and will be hoping to build on that improved showing under Da Cruz.

The Frenchman oversaw Chiefs’ pre-season preparations in Spain, where they played Rangers, Al Kholood and LALIGA club Elche CF. Saturday’s fixture will provide the first opportunity to assess the team in a competitive match since Da Cruz’s appointment.

Kruger United, meanwhile, are preparing for their first match in the top flight after winning the Motsepe Foundation Championship. The KwaZulu-Natal club have strengthened their squad with several players who have experience at this level.

Among those additions are goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari, who has joined on loan from Kaizer Chiefs, as well as Thabang Sibanyoni, Kwanda Mngonyama and Katlego Mohamme.

Despite that top-flight experience within the squad, Kruger face an immediate test against one of South Africa’s most prominent clubs as they make their Betway Premiership debut.

Kruger United starting XI

Dandjinou starts in goal, with Katlego Mohamme, Sibiya, Matima and Seedat forming the defensive unit. Makhubela, Nel and Ndlovu are selected in midfield, while Malatjie, Mphothe and Thwala lead the attack.

Kruger United’s substitutes are Tshabalala, Saralina, Mahlangu, Tavengwa, Fakude, Mkhonza, Zwane and Ndlela.

Kaizer Chiefs starting XI

Petersen is named as the Chiefs goalkeeper. Monyane, Kwinika, Miguel and Frosler make up the defence, with Maboe, Ndlovu and Chislett selected in midfield.

Da Silva, Baartman and Vilakazi will operate in the attacking roles for the visitors.

Chiefs’ substitutes are Leaner, Solomons, Nkgwesa, Moloisane, Mthethwa, Ngcobo, Mmodi, Ighodaro and Duba.

The match is scheduled for 1 August 2026 at Mbombela Stadium. It is the opening Betway Premiership fixture for both sides, with Kaizer Chiefs looking to make an early statement under Da Cruz and Kruger United aiming to mark their arrival in the division with a positive result.