Cedric Kaze misses Sekhukhune United opener because of work permit delay

Sekhukhune United began their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaign without new head coach Cedric Kaze on the bench after a delay in processing his work permit.

Babina Noko were due to face Durban City on Saturday afternoon, with the match attracting particular interest because it brought together Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef, the former Kaizer Chiefs co-coaches.

Kaze was absent from the official team sheet and did not take his place in the technical area. His assistant, Paulus Masehe, said the coach’s paperwork had not yet been completed.

The same issue has affected Sekhukhune United’s foreign players Chibuikwe Ohizu and Bethuel Muzeu, who were also dealing with delays relating to their work permits.

“The reason is there is a slight delay regarding his papers, his work permit,” Masehe told SuperSport TV.

“Same as also our foreign players, Ohio, Muzeu – there is also a slight delay regarding their work permit.

“But we’re hoping it can be resolved pretty soon.”

Kaze’s absence meant Masehe was involved in the opening match as Sekhukhune United started the new campaign without their head coach present on the bench. Despite the late administrative setback, Masehe said the club remained satisfied with the progress made under Kaze during preparations for the season.

He also stressed that the arrival of a new coach had not altered the club’s overall approach.

“New season, new coach, new coach,” he added.

“But the Sekhukhune philosophy doesn’t change and we have added people to the team that we believe add value.

“Up to so far, things have been going very well, with tough friendlies that we managed to play.

“It has given our coach a chance to access his team and also his philosophy of which I believe went very well and we’re looking forward to the season.”

Sekhukhune United’s preparations included a series of demanding friendly matches, which Masehe said had allowed Kaze to assess his squad and introduce his footballing ideas.

The assistant coach indicated that the work completed before the start of the Betway Premiership season had gone well, despite Kaze being unavailable for the opening fixture because of the outstanding documentation.

Masehe’s comments offered reassurance that the club’s underlying philosophy remained intact while the new coach’s methods were being implemented. Sekhukhune United had also strengthened their staff and playing group with additions they believe will bring value to the team.

The immediate focus, however, was on resolving the work-permit delay affecting Kaze and the players involved. The club hoped the matter would be settled soon, allowing the coach and his foreign players to take part fully in the campaign.