Nedbank Cup champions Kaizer Chiefs are determined to secure a top-eight finish in the Betway Premiership when they face Sekhukhune United on Saturday in a must-win encounter.
Currently in ninth place on the league table, Chiefs are tied on points with eighth-placed Chippa United, but the Amakhosi have a game in hand over their Gqeberha-based rivals.
With just two matches remaining, this clash holds significant importance for Chiefs as they look to climb into the coveted top-eight spots, which would ensure their participation in next season’s MTN8 competition.
Sekhukhune, on the other hand, are also fighting for their place in the top half of the table and will be looking to solidify their position in the race for a CAF spot.
Read: Kaizer Chiefs Must Delay Cup Celebrations in Pursuit of Top-Eight Spot
Kaizer Chiefs Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Junior reiterated the importance of ending the season in a top eight spot on the Betway Premiership table.
“We need to be (in the top 8), we knew our objectives before the season started. We missed out on it last year.” he said in an interview with Xoliswa Zondo on 5FM.
“We know our objectives before the season started. We missed out on it last year. We are going to give everything that we can to make sure that we feature in every cup possible next season.
“It’s two tough games, Polokwane City and Sekhukhune, teams that are actually doing well this season. So, it won’t be easy but from our side it’s a must,” he added.
“We need to be in the top 8 and give everything we can to make sure we do that.”
Rumors have circulated in the media that head coach Nasreddine Nabi may be sacked if he fails to secure a top eight 8 spot despite ending a ten year trophy drought in their recent cup final against Orlando Pirates.
“We cannot say that we have redeemed ourselves by winning the Nedbank Cup,” Nabi told reporters.
“We have to fight with every ounce against very difficult opponents in Sekhukhune United and Polokwane City to finish in the top eight, and we need to stay focused to get the work done.”
Sekhukhune United know that a draw may allow fourth placed Stellenbosch to leapfrog them into the final CAF Confederation Cup spot, and Eric Tinkler side is unlikely to sit back and park the bus in this clash.
Babina Noko will also be motivated following head coach Eric Tinkler winning the Coach of the Month for April, with midfielder Keletso Makgalwa scooping the Player of the Month award.
Kaizer Chiefs will need to bring their A-game if they are to overcome Sekhukhune, who have been in strong form this season, and push for a spot in the competition’s top tier. Kick off at the Peter Mokaba Stadium is set for 15h00 on Saturday, 17 May 2025.