After securing a draw against Kaizer Chiefs, Chippa United are proactively securing their squad for the upcoming 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign by engaging in negotiations for contract extensions with two pivotal players.
As the Chilli Boys fiercely compete for a coveted top-eight finish to secure participation in next season’s MTN8 tournament, retaining key talent becomes paramount.
Their recent hard-fought goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium this past weekend underscores their competitive spirit.
Read: Chippa United Set for Major Squad Revamp as September Prepares for Key Departures
This result leaves the Gqeberha-based outfit narrowly positioned in ninth place on the Premiership log, amassing 30 points from 23 matches.
They trail the eighth-placed Soweto giants by a mere single point, highlighting the tight race for the final MTN8 spot.
Looking ahead to the next season, Chippa United have initiated discussions with reliable left-back Azola Ntsabo and dependable back-up goalkeeper Darren Johnson to finalize new contractual agreements.
Both players are currently nearing the end of their existing contracts, which are set to expire in June 2025.
Ntsabo has established himself as a consistent presence in Chippa’s defense, regularly occupying the left-back role.
His contributions extend beyond his defensive duties, as evidenced by his impressive record of one goal and two assists in 15 appearances across all competitions this season.
Notably, his exceptional strike earned him the prestigious Goal of the Month award for March, further highlighting his value to the team.
Meanwhile, Darren Johnson, the former shot-stopper for Cape Town Spurs, has served as a capable second-choice goalkeeper to Stanley Nwabali.
Despite limited appearances, featuring in two matches, Johnson has consistently demonstrated his readiness and competence whenever called upon.
Ntobatsi Mesegela, the representative of both Ntsabo and Johnson, confirmed Chippa United’s keen interest in retaining their services.
“Chippa United have opened talks with us to discuss contract renewals for Darren Johnson and Azola Ntsabo,’ Masegela revealed to FARPost.
He further elaborated on their importance to the team: “I think the two players are in future plans for Chippa United, and that’s why we have been discussing the new contracts.
“Azola Ntsabo has been key for the club in the left-back position. I mean, we saw that he won the Goal of the Month for March, and with Darren, he has been playing second choice to Nwabali, but whenever he’s on the pitch, he always does the job.
Masegela expressed optimism regarding the ongoing negotiations, stating, “So if all goes well in the coming weeks, the two players will commit to new contracts because they are valuable at the club.”
Chippa United will be in action next against Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership. Kick off at the Danie Craven Stadium is set for 19h30 on Wednesday, 30 April 2025.