Soccer Laduma’s 1491st edition previews Kaizer Chiefs’ tactical shift and Nkota’s Orlando Pirates return

The 1491st edition of Soccer Laduma will be available at outlets on Thursday, 10 September 2026, with the latest issue examining Kaizer Chiefs’ evolving formation, Miguel Reisinho’s departure from Mamelodi Sundowns and Mohau Nkota’s return to Orlando Pirates.

Kaizer Chiefs’ tactical change

Kaizer Chiefs coach Fernando Da Cruz was pushed towards his current 3-4-2-1 system after the club suffered six left-back injuries. The formation has replaced a structure built around wingers and a traditional number 10 operating in a central position with one that gives greater prominence to two inside forwards.

Although the tactical adjustment is still relatively new, it appears to be bringing benefits to a number of Kaizer Chiefs’ young attacking players, including Mduduzi Shabalala, Mfundo Vilakazi and Faiz Abrahams.

The new issue asks why the system has suited these developing midfielders and whether Bradley Cross’s return could offer an additional way to bring the best out of Vilakazi and Shabalala in particular. Soccer Laduma examines the tactical thinking behind the change and its potential effect on the club’s emerging talent.

Reisinho reflects on Sundowns spell

Miguel Reisinho’s move to Mamelodi Sundowns came as a surprise, with the Portuguese joining compatriot Nuno Santos at the club ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. His arrival gave Miguel Cardoso’s midfield greater depth.

However, just one year later, the 27-year-old has departed Chloorkop. In an exclusive interview with Soccer Laduma, Reisinho discusses the defining moments of his career, including his experience of dealing with the intense pressure at Boavista FC and winning the CAF Champions League with Masandawana.

The midfielder also reflects on his time playing alongside world-class talent at Sundowns. Following his departure, he explains why his professional principles and uncompromising standards will continue to influence the next move he makes.

The story behind Nkota’s return

The confirmation of Mohau Nkota’s return to Orlando Pirates last week prompted an immediate reaction. Many supporters viewed the move as a welcome return for one of the most exciting young players to emerge from the Buccaneers’ development system in recent years.

Others, particularly on social media, questioned whether Nkota’s move to Saudi Arabia had failed to deliver the expected outcome and whether the 21-year-old had been unable to build on his promising start.

The latest issue considers a different interpretation of the transfer. Nkota has had to contend with a serious knee injury, a long period away from competitive football and challenging personal circumstances. Against that backdrop, his season-long loan back to familiar surroundings could give him the opportunity to reset, recover and rediscover himself.

The Siya crew has investigated the circumstances behind the move and explored what the return could mean for one of South Africa’s most promising young players.

Mashikinya considers life after playing

The edition also features an interview with Given Mashikinya, whose playing career lasted more than 13 seasons. During that time, he represented Mpumalanga Black Aces, Cape Town City, Bloemfontein Celtic, Royal AM, Sekhukhune United and Maritzburg United.

Now 35, Mashikinya is considering the transition from footballer to coach while also weighing up the possibility of formally retiring from playing. His career has been marked by longevity and commitment, but he has been away from competitive football for 12 months.

He discusses his current position as head coach of the Pretoria Boys High U15s and the emotional difficulty of moving on from the only professional life he has known.

European season under the spotlight

The European league season is under way across the continent and will soon move into its next stage with the beginning of the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League campaign.

Paris Saint-Germain are the two-time reigning champions. Despite struggling during the league phase in their previous campaigns, they have shown that success is ultimately determined by how a team finishes rather than how it starts.

A number of Europe’s leading clubs will aim to end the French side’s dominance of the competition. Soccer Laduma assesses the main contenders for the tournament, as well as the potential surprise packages who could make an impact this season.

The revolving column comes from former Jomo Cosmos winger Brian Sebapole, who gives his views on the SAFA elections.

The popular Siyagobhoza section also features updates on Van Rooyen’s one-season opportunity at Sundowns, Le Roux’s next move and Orlando Pirates’ response to continued discussion surrounding the possible transfer of Appollis.

The latest edition of Soccer Laduma will be available from the nearest outlet on Thursday, 10 September 2026.