The 2025/26 Betway Premiership has evolved into one of the most competitive seasons in a decade. After a historic start to the year, 22-year-old defender Aden McCarthy has emerged as a key voice in the Naturena dressing room, insisting that the club’s trophy drought could finally end this May.
From History Maker to Title Contender
McCarthy’s confidence is fueled by more than just optimism; it is backed by a string of gritty, “championship-winning” performances.
- The “McCarthy” Legacy: Aden recently made headlines by scoring his maiden senior goal against Golden Arrows—emulating his father, Fabian McCarthy, who also scored his first Chiefs goal against the same opponents in 2005. This historic moment has seemingly galvanized the young defender.
- The “Guns Blazing” Mentality: Ahead of tonight’s clash with Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein, McCarthy stated: “The race is on. We want that league title… we just need to keep working hard.” He emphasized that despite a grueling schedule (11 games in 48 days), the team is mentally prepared to hunt down the leaders.
- The Numbers Game: Chiefs (3rd Place): 27 points from 14 games.
- The Gap: They currently sit just 5 points adrift of leaders Mamelodi Sundowns (who hit 32 points after beating Sekhukhune United last night).
- The Advantage: Amakhosi have games in hand and are currently on a long unbeaten league run stretching back to September 2025.
The Big Three Race
| Team | Status | Key Strength |
| Mamelodi Sundowns | 1st | Ruthless depth; just signed Jody Ah Shene to bolster the attack. |
| Orlando Pirates | 2nd | High-tempo “Buccaneer” football; leading the pack for most of the season. |
| Kaizer Chiefs | 3rd | Best defensive record under the new McCarthy-led backline; “hard to beat” grit. |
