Kaizer Chiefs have officially concluded ther 2025 pre-season tour in the Netherlands, where they played five tough fixtures against competitive European opposition in preparation for the upcoming Betway Premiership season. While the results weren’t always in their favour, the tour provided invaluable experience and insight for the Soweto giants under the guidance of their new technical team.
🔁 Five Matches, One Win, Plenty of Lessons
The Amakhosi kicked off their European journey on 8 July with a spirited performance against Dutch side Vitesse, where they initially took the lead but were ultimately edged 2–1 after a second-half fightback by the hosts.
Three days later, on 11 July, Chiefs endured their heaviest defeat of the tour – a 4–0 drubbing at the hands of FC Utrecht. The game exposed defensive frailties and highlighted the need for sharper decision-making in possession.
The pressure continued to mount after a narrow 1–0 loss to NEC Nijmegen on 12 July, leaving Chiefs winless after three matches. However, signs of improvement began to show, especially with the introduction of several younger squad members.
✅ Breakthrough Against Zwolle
On 15 July, Kaizer Chiefs finally found joy, securing a 1–0 win over PEC Zwolle. The victory came courtesy of a second-half strike from Naledi Hlongwane, who reacted quickest to a rebound to slot home what would be the only goal of the match. The result was a breath of fresh air for the squad and fans, with Hlongwane’s name now circulating as one to watch this season.
👊 Battling Finish vs FC Twente
The final match of the tour was played on 16 July against FC Twente, a team with continental football experience. Chiefs equalised in the second half after conceding early, but a late goal from the Dutch hosts condemned the Glamour Boys to a 2–1 defeat. Despite the loss, the match was perhaps their most competitive display, showcasing resilience and better tactical organisation.
📊 Tour Summary:
- 🏟 Matches Played: 5
- ✅ Wins: 1
- ❌ Losses: 4
- ⚽ Goals Scored: 3
- 🚫 Goals Conceded: 9
🔍 What’s Next for Amakhosi?
With the Netherlands tour behind them, Kaizer Chiefs will now return to South Africa to put final touches on their preparations ahead of the 2025/26 season. The coaching staff is expected to trim the squad and make key decisions on player roles based on what was observed during the European trip.
Despite the mixed results, the tour offered a valuable testing ground for squad depth, tactics, and fitness. Supporters will be hoping the lessons learned overseas translate into stronger performances once the Betway Premiership campaign kicks off.
