Kaizer Chiefs return to MTN8 with Golden Arrows clash at FNB Stadium

Kaizer Chiefs return to the MTN8 for the first time in three years when they host Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Sunday evening.

The match takes place on 09 August 2026, with both sides beginning their campaigns in the competition after lengthy absences.

Chiefs were not involved in the previous two editions of the MTN8. Their last appearance came in 2023, when they were beaten by Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals.

The Amakhosi finished third in the 2025/2026 campaign under co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze, who have since left the club.

Fernando Da Cruz has taken charge at Chiefs and made a winning start in the Betway Premiership last weekend, guiding his side to a 3-1 victory over Kruger United.

Golden Arrows are also making a long-awaited return to the competition. Their previous MTN8 appearance was during the 2020/21 season, when they were eliminated by Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals.

Chiefs completed a league double over Arrows last season, recording consecutive 1-0 wins in the two meetings between the sides.

The starting line-ups for the MTN8 tie are:

Kaizer Chiefs: 1. Petersen, 2. Monyane, 4. Kwinika, 84. Miguel, 39. Frosler, 6. Maboe, 22. Mtasingwa, 12. Ngcobo, 11. Baartman, 28. Vilakazi, 47. Duba

Substitutes: 16. Leaner, 18. Solomons, 38. Nkgwesa, 42. Moloisane, 5. Mthethwa, 8. Ndlovu, 7. Shabalala, 9. Ighodaro, Phili

Golden Arrows: 34. Maova, 4. Jiyane, 24. Dlamini, 38. Mabaso, 28. Van Neel, 3. Shezi, 30. Cele, 25. Maxwele, 18. Dion, 36. Khumalo, 41. Zwane

Substitutes: 27. Mbanjwa, 49. Gasa, 35. Mantshiyane, 17. Khumalo, 29. Sithole, 44. Mbatha, 22. Karelse, 14. Van Rooi, 45. Rakosa

The fixture comes as Chiefs begin a new era under Da Cruz, while Arrows seek to make a mark on their return to one of South Africa’s major cup competitions. Both clubs will be aiming to reach the latter stages after their most recent MTN8 campaigns ended in semi-final defeats by Mamelodi Sundowns.