ALICANTE, SPAIN – A new chapter is taking shape at Kaizer Chiefs as the Soweto giants continue their demanding pre-season preparations on European soil. Based in the coastal region of Alicante, Spain, Amakhosi are undergoing a focused 10-day training camp aimed at improving tactical discipline, match sharpness and overall squad fitness ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
With returning head coach Fernando Da Cruz leading the charge, Chiefs are using the Spanish trip as a crucial foundation-building period, as they look to develop a team capable of competing for major honours once again.
Spanish Tests Provide Valuable Preparation
Rather than taking a cautious approach to pre-season, Da Cruz has immediately challenged his squad with a series of demanding international friendly matches. The fixtures are designed to expose the players to different footballing styles while allowing the technical team to assess fitness levels, tactical understanding and squad depth.
Rangers FC 1-1 Kaizer Chiefs
Sunday, 12 July | Marbella Football Centre
Chiefs opened their Spanish campaign with a competitive encounter against Scottish giants Rangers FC behind closed doors at the Marbella Football Centre.
The Glamour Boys made the perfect start when Etiosa Ighodaro found the back of the net in the fifth minute, giving Chiefs an early advantage. The team showed strong defensive organisation throughout the match, but Rangers eventually found a late equaliser in the 89th minute to force a draw.
Al Kholood 1-1 Kaizer Chiefs
Wednesday, 15 July | Pinatar Arena
The second test saw Chiefs face Saudi Pro League newcomers Al Kholood in another intense battle.
The match provided Da Cruz with an opportunity to rotate his squad and evaluate different combinations as players competed for places ahead of the new season. The encounter ended in another draw, giving the technical team more valuable information from a highly competitive fixture.
Elche CF vs Kaizer Chiefs
Saturday, 18 July
The Spanish tour will conclude with a difficult challenge against Spanish side Elche CF.
The fixture represents Chiefs’ final European test before returning to South Africa, with the coaching staff expected to use the match as the final assessment of the squad’s progress during the overseas camp.
New Signings Settle Into Da Cruz’s System
While results remain important, the main focus of the Spanish camp extends beyond friendly match outcomes. The trip has provided valuable time for new arrivals, including defender Thabo Moloisane and goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, to integrate into the squad and understand Da Cruz’s football philosophy.
Away from the pressure and expectations of the domestic environment, the camp has allowed the players to build stronger relationships while adapting to new tactical demands.
Da Cruz has made it clear that Kaizer Chiefs must restore a winning mentality and consistently compete for trophies. The French coach believes the club’s history and reputation demand nothing less, and the intensive training schedule in Spain is designed to create the standards required for success.
Toyota Cup Awaits After European Adventure
After completing their European preparations, Chiefs will immediately turn their attention back to South African football.
The Glamour Boys are set to participate in the Toyota Cup, where they will face Zimbabwean champions Scottland FC at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg on Sunday, 26 July 2026.
The match will serve as the final dress rehearsal before Chiefs begin their Betway Premiership campaign on 1 August 2026, with an away fixture against Kruger United.
For the Amakhosi faithful, who have been waiting for a return to the top of South African football, the carefully planned pre-season programme has provided renewed hope. Under Da Cruz, Chiefs are determined to lay the groundwork for a stronger and more competitive campaign.
