Soccer Laduma issue focuses on Eric Tinkler’s Asante Kotoko move and Orlando Pirates’ Norwegian gamble

Eric Tinkler’s arrival at Asante Kotoko and Orlando Pirates’ data-driven move for Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen are among the standout stories in this week’s 1485th edition of Soccer Laduma, which hits shelves on Thursday, 30 July 2026.

The latest issue of the South African football weekly also features an in-depth look at Kaizer Chiefs playmaker Mduduzi Shabalala’s growing profile off the pitch, Vusumuzi Vilakazi’s swift return to the dugout with Highbury FC, and the second instalment of a major retrospective on Willard Katsande’s playing career.

Tinkler on life in Ghana and leaving Sekhukhune

One of the main interviews centres on Eric Tinkler, who has taken over at Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko in what is described as the most high-pressure job in Ghanaian football.

The former Bafana Bafana midfielder, who has previously tasted continental success as a player and developed a reputation as one of South Africa’s more measured coaches, uses his first extended football conversation since parting company with Sekhukhune United to outline his ambitions with the Porcupine Warriors.

In conversation with Soccer Laduma’s Clint Roper, Tinkler reflects on leaving Sekhukhune United and discusses how he intends to restore Asante Kotoko’s status on the African stage, with the club having turned to him specifically to revive their fortunes in continental competition.

Pirates’ long search ends with Pedersen signing

Another major feature unpacks Orlando Pirates’ hunt for a new striker, which dominated recent transfer speculation as several prominent names were linked with the Soweto club.

Instead of signing a more familiar figure from Africa or Europe, Pirates have opted for a less heralded option by bringing in 27-year-old Sebastian Pedersen from Norwegian side Sogndal Fotball. The article notes that his arrival may have surprised some supporters, given his low profile in South Africa.

Soccer Laduma reports, however, that the deal is understood to be the outcome of months of planning, detailed use of statistics and a targeted recruitment approach aimed at taking Pirates to a higher level both in domestic competition and the CAF Champions League.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, speaking at the club’s media day on Tuesday, underlines the need for a different type of attacking option to sharpen the side’s finishing. The Siya crew examines why Pedersen was chosen ahead of other candidates, how his attributes fit Ouaddou’s tactical blueprint, and why people close to the negotiations believe he could adapt quickly.

Shabalala fronts major boot launch

The issue also includes coverage of Mduduzi Shabalala, who is emerging as one of Kaizer Chiefs’ most marketable young players. The attacking midfielder was in Cape Town on Monday as the face of the South African campaign for the new PUMA ULTRA 7 football boot.

The launch took place at Mike’s Sports in Bree Street, where Shabalala – popularly known as “Mdu” – took time out for an exclusive one-on-one conversation with Soccer Laduma. The piece explores both his on-field rise with Kaizer Chiefs and his increasing prominence in commercial campaigns.

Vilakazi back in the Championship with Highbury

In the domestic coaching scene, Vusumuzi Vilakazi explains his quick return to work following his departure from Chippa United. Remaining in the Eastern Cape, he has taken charge of Motsepe Foundation Championship side Highbury FC after the club’s split with Kabelo Sibiya, who has since been appointed head coach at Magesi FC.

Vilakazi is back in the second tier for a second successive season, having previously led Kruger United before leaving early in the campaign to join Chippa United. In his interview, he stresses his intention to remain at Highbury FC and avoid a repeat of his abrupt exit from Kruger United last season.

Katsande reflects on a career of “near-glory”

On the international front, the magazine continues its feature on former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Willard Katsande. Part One focused on his move into coaching, including stints with Rangers FC and Grand Legacy FC in Zimbabwe, and his views on the contrasts between football in Zimbabwe and South Africa. He has since left Grand Legacy FC.

Part Two shifts back to his playing days, tracing his path from Ajax Cape Town to his trophy-laden spell at Kaizer Chiefs. The former Zimbabwe captain shares his memories of coming close to further honours, discusses what it meant to wear a revered jersey, and talks about the patience required to help rebuild a traditional powerhouse.

Fan views and transfer whispers

The regular Revolving Column features supporter Saddam Maake’s take on Banyana Banyana’s opening match at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), offering a fan’s-eye view on the national team’s start to the tournament.

In the popular Siyagobhoza section, the latest transfer and career updates include English Championship interest in Thapelo Maseko, defender Olisa Ndah’s preference to remain in South Africa, and the prospect of an overseas switch for out-of-favour midfielder Thabo Cele.

Soccer Laduma issue 1485 will be available at outlets nationwide from Thursday, with the publishers urging readers not to miss the latest coverage of South African and African football.