While the Betway Premiership title race has turned into a two-horse sprint between Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs are far from being “on holiday.” With four matches remaining in the 2025/26 campaign, the Glamour Boys are staring down a defining month that could reshape the club’s future.
From playing “kingmaker” in the title race to securing a return to continental football, here is what’s at stake for the Amakhosi.
1. The Ultimate Kingmaker: Can Chiefs Help Pirates?
In a rare twist of fate, Orlando Pirates fans will be the biggest Kaizer Chiefs supporters this week. On Wednesday, May 6, Chiefs travel to Loftus Versfeld to face log-leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
With only two points separating Sundowns (61) and Pirates (59), an Amakhosi victory or draw could hand the Buccaneers a massive lifeline in their quest for a first league title since 2012. For Chiefs, it’s an opportunity to prove they can still go toe-to-toe with the defending champions.
2. Jobs on the Line: The Coaching Conundrum
The “honeymoon phase” for co-coaches Khalil Ben Youssef and Cedric Kaze is officially over. After a brilliant seven-match unbeaten run, a recent 2-0 loss to Siwelele FC has reignited the conversation about their futures.
With the hierarchy set to conduct a performance review at the end of the month, the final four games are effectively a job interview. Ending the season without silverware is a bitter pill for fans; finishing outside the top three could be the final straw for the technical team.
3. The CAF Confederation Cup Mission
The most tangible goal remains Continental Qualification. After a trophy-less season, returning to Africa is the only way to salvage the campaign.
- The Math: Chiefs sit in 3rd place with 47 points.
- The Goal: They need 8 points from their final 4 games to guarantee a CAF Confederation Cup spot.
- The Threat: AmaZulu are lurking in 4th place, just five points behind.
The Road Ahead:
- May 6: vs Mamelodi Sundowns (A)
- May 10: vs Sekhukhune United (A)
- May 16: vs AmaZulu (A) – The “Six-Pointer”
- May 23: vs Chippa United (H)
