Soccer Laduma Issue 1486: Kaizer Chiefs, Sundowns and Hugo Broos’ successor in focus

The 1486th edition of Soccer Laduma will examine Kaizer Chiefs’ squad needs, the young players hoping to break into Mamelodi Sundowns’ first team and the leading candidates to replace Hugo Broos as Bafana Bafana coach.

The latest issue will be available at outlets on Thursday, 6 August 2026, with a range of features covering South African football, the international transfer market and the latest developments in the game.

Kaizer Chiefs’ new head coach Fernando Da Cruz made an immediate impression by guiding the club to a 3-1 victory in his first official match in charge.

That result offered an early indication of the style the French-born coach wants his side to adopt, but it also highlighted questions about several positions within his preferred 4-2-3-1 system.

Da Cruz was particularly candid during his Toyota Cup pre-match news conference around two weeks ago, telling reporters that he still wanted four more signings before the transfer window closes.

The new edition asks whether the coach will get the additions he has requested and whether there are weaknesses in the squad beyond the positions he identified. Kaizer Chiefs currently have 27 senior outfield players, but Soccer Laduma considers whether further reinforcement is required.

Sundowns’ young players await their chance

Mamelodi Sundowns have established a reputation for spending heavily on talent, but their success has also been supported by a production line of young players.

Percy Tau, the late Motjeka Madisha, Keletso Makgalwa, Sphelele Mkhulise and Malibongwe Khoza are among those to have come through at Chloorkop during the past decade.

Their progress demonstrates that Sundowns’ approach is not limited to signing the biggest names in domestic football. The club included several of its academy products in its pre-season trip to Austria, raising the possibility that they could receive more opportunities under head coach Miguel Cardoso during the new campaign.

Soccer Laduma assesses the Sundowns players who could make a greater impact in the first team this season.

Who will succeed Broos?

Broos has left Bafana Bafana in what is arguably their strongest position for more than 20 years.

The Belgian coach restored confidence in the national side, led South Africa to third place at the Africa Cup of Nations and guided the team to a historic appearance in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

His departure has now placed one of the most important decisions in recent South African football before the South African Football Association (SAFA): choosing his successor.

With Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches due to begin next month, the organisation faces pressure to make the right appointment. The latest Siya Special examines the leading contenders, considers the argument over whether the next coach should be South African or foreign, and explores why Pitso Mosimane appears to be at the centre of the discussion.

More from Issue 1486

Marumo Gallants’ attempt to move away from their regular relegation struggles is also examined. The club has often found itself scrapping for survival in the Betway Premiership and has decided that structural changes are needed to avoid repeated battles to remain in the top flight.

As part of that response, Gallants appointed experienced administrator Paul Matthews as sporting director. Matthews spent last season with Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC before returning to South Africa, and he now faces the task of helping to stabilise the club.

Soccer Laduma recently spoke to Matthews about the responsibilities of his new position and the experience he brings to Marumo Gallants.

An international feature looks at the major transfers made ahead of the 2026-27 campaigns around the world. High-profile players have moved to high-profile clubs for substantial fees, reflecting the scale of the current market.

The feature considers whether those players will make immediate contributions and whether they will ultimately be judged as successes or failures. It also stresses that a large transfer fee is no guarantee of achievement, with several factors capable of influencing how a move develops. The piece is written by Soccer Laduma’s Junaid Benjamin.

This week’s Revolving Column comes from Orlando Pirates supporter Mxolisi Motha and focuses on Bambanani Mbane.

The popular Siyagobhoza section includes fresh developments on Given Msimango’s contract, Orlando Pirates’ search for a goalkeeper beyond South Africa and Stellenbosch’s efforts to secure a sell-on clause in the Phili deal.

Readers are encouraged to pick up the new edition of Soccer Laduma from their nearest outlet. The issue’s promotional notice also describes it as available tomorrow, ahead of its stated Thursday, 6 August 2026 release date.