Kaizer Chiefs’ transfer window and Pitso Mosimane’s Bafana Bafana start lead Soccer Laduma 1493

The 1493rd edition of Soccer Laduma, available from Thursday, 24th September 2026, examines Kaizer Chiefs’ transfer business, Pitso Mosimane’s first Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with Bafana Bafana and the stadium problems affecting South African football.

Chiefs measured against PSL rivals

With the Premier Soccer League transfer window now closed, the Siya Crew assesses how Kaizer Chiefs compare with Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, the champions and runners-up from last season.

The analysis considers the current ability of each signing, their potential, how well they fit the team’s style of play and whether they strengthen the best possible starting line-up. It asks whether Amakhosi have narrowed the gap to their major rivals or whether they have fallen further behind.

The issue also identifies which clubs emerged as the winners and losers of the window, whether Chiefs had a better or worse period of recruitment than Sundowns and Pirates, and which of their new arrivals appear most likely to succeed.

Mosimane begins Bafana era

Bafana Bafana begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign at home, with new coach Pitso Mosimane taking charge of one of the most demanding positions in African football.

Mosimane succeeds Hugo Broos, whose time in charge brought success, and expectations are high that the new coach can take the national team further. Bafana Bafana last won AFCON in 1996, leaving Mosimane with the challenge of attempting to return the trophy to South Africa.

He has already achieved major success at club level, but his opening results with the national team will be crucial. Soccer Laduma looks ahead to the forthcoming qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea.

Stadium standards under scrutiny

A special report investigates the continuing problems surrounding stadiums in South Africa. Several venues have failed to meet the Premier Soccer League’s required standards, forcing changes that have affected clubs, supporters and broadcasters.

The report examines the scale of the issue and asks what lies behind the country’s stadium difficulties.

Rammile reflects on his career

Former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana defender Thabiso Rammile discusses a career that began with considerable promise.

He recalls breaking through under Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba with the South African U23s before moving from Maritzburg City to Chloorkop. Rammile also speaks about the difficulties he experienced at Sundowns, losing direction when his progress stalled and the lessons he learned from that period.

Through Ditlhake Masters, he has since found another football family. The organisation has given him a way to remain involved in the sport while supporting former professionals and sharing his experiences.

More from issue 1493

The international feature focuses on the 2026 Ballon d’Or, for which 30 players will compete for recognition as football’s best player. The shortlist includes world champions, European champions and winners from some of Europe’s leading leagues.

Soccer Laduma highlights 10 players expected to be among the strongest contenders before the ceremony in London on 26 October.

Ubuntu Football Academy youth coach Masibulele Sukaze contributes this week’s Revolving Column, focusing on the 2026 U20 COSAFA Cup.

The Siyagobhoza section includes updates on Saleng’s unresolved future, Ngcobo’s uncertain position at Kaizer Chiefs and Makhaula’s remaining opportunity at Orlando Pirates.