Aden McCarthy is about to embark on the biggest European adventure of his career.
The former Kaizer Chiefs defender and his Sabah FK teammates have been handed a daunting set of fixtures in the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League league phase, with clashes against some of the biggest clubs in world football.
Sabah secured their place in the competition after a dramatic 6-5 aggregate victory over Hapoel Be’er Sheva, with the decisive second leg going into extra time.
McCarthy was involved in that historic night and will now have the opportunity to test himself against Europe’s elite.
McCarthy handed blockbuster Champions League fixtures
The Sabah defender will face Arsenal, Manchester United and Barcelona, guaranteeing some unforgettable nights for the Azerbaijan-based club.
Their Champions League schedule includes:
- Arsenal vs Sabah FK
- Manchester United vs Sabah FK
- Sabah FK vs Barcelona
- Sabah FK vs Borussia Dortmund
- Sabah FK vs Napoli
- Sabah FK vs Slavia Praha
- Viking FK vs Sabah FK
- Villarreal vs Sabah FK
The dates and kick-off times are still to be confirmed.
For Sabah, reaching this stage represents a landmark moment. For McCarthy, it is an opportunity to go from playing South African football to sharing the pitch with some of the biggest names in European football.
Chiefs continue unbeaten league start
Back in South Africa, McCarthy’s former club Kaizer Chiefs have made an unbeaten start to their Betway Premiership campaign.
The Glamour Boys held Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1-1 draw before sharing the spoils in a 2-2 encounter with Richards Bay.
Despite their MTN8 setback, Chiefs have shown encouraging signs under coach Fernando Da Cruz, who has experimented with a three-man defensive system.
The formation proved effective against Sundowns, with Chiefs restricting the reigning champions to an expected-goals figure of just 0.63 and two shots on target.
The tactical change has also created an opportunity for Pule Mmodi, who has featured as a wing-back.
Chiefs will next face Siwelele on Saturday, 5 September, as they look to maintain their unbeaten league record.
For McCarthy, however, the focus will soon turn to a much bigger stage — the UEFA Champions League.
Can Aden McCarthy and Sabah FK cause a few surprises against Europe’s heavyweights?
