The Betway Premiership off-season is reaching a boiling point. As South African giants fine-tune their squads for the 2026/27 campaign, massive transfer shocks are rattling both sides of the Soweto divide.
From Naturena’s multimillion-Rand transfer headache to a controversial departure at Mayfair, here is your breakdown of today’s biggest football headlines.
Kaizer Chiefs: Will Amakhosi Cash In on Glody Lilepo?
Kaizer Chiefs are facing a massive test of their resolve. Moroccan powerhouse AS FAR has tabled a blockbuster R17 million bid for Congolese winger Glody Lilepo.
The 28-year-old was one of Amakhosi’s most reliable creators last season, delivering five goals and four assists in 27 league appearances. Despite his consistency, his long-term future at Naturena is highly uncertain:
- Excluded from Spain: In a major hint that a deal is close, Lilepo did not travel with the Glamour Boys for their pre-season training camp in Spain under coach Fernando da Cruz.
- The Contract Situation: With his current contract expiring next year, the Chiefs board is tempted to accept the massive offer to avoid losing him on a free transfer.
- Mayo Inbound? Any sting from Lilepo’s departure could be eased by reports that striker Khanyisa Mayo is close to securing a permanent stay at the club following his successful loan stint.
Orlando Pirates: Fans Angry Over Thabiso Sesane’s Shock Release
Across Johannesburg, Orlando Pirates fans are demanding answers after the board greenlit the release of 26-year-old central defender Thabiso Sesane.
While Sesane was a reliable pillar in the backline during the first half of the 2024/25 campaign, a devastating, long-term injury sidelined him completely for the entirety of the Buccaneers’ historic 2025/26 title-winning run. It appears the board decided Sesane would struggle to recapture his best form.
However, fans are furious to see yet another key senior figure depart. With Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Relebohile Mofokeng (Royal Union Saint-Gilloise), and Mohau Nkota (Saudi Arabia) all leaving over the last 18 months, supporters worry the squad depth is being dangerously depleted ahead of a grueling domestic and CAF Champions League calendar.
Elsewhere: Argentina Book World Cup Final Spot
On the global stage, the stage is set for a blockbuster World Cup final this Sunday. Argentina battled past a resilient England side in Atlanta to book their ticket to the showpiece event.
The irrepressible Lionel Messi was the architect of English heartbreak once again, setting up late goals for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. Luis de la Fuente’s European champions, Spain, await La Albiceleste in what promises to be an epic final.
