Kaizer Chiefs' next Betway Premiership match will be against Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on November 28. The stadium has reopened after being closed for more than half a year for major upgrades to its pitch and other parts of the facility.
Chippa United chairman Siviwe Mpengesi confirmed the game, saying it is part of events to mark the stadium's return to use. The club decided not to use Buffalo City Stadium for this important fixture. Mpengesi stressed the significance of playing such a major game back at their usual home ground.
Venue commitment amid partnership talks
The fixture is confirmed even though the club's long-standing agreement with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has ended. A proposal to extend it for three years was not completed before the previous Council finished its term. Chippa United, which has another three-year deal with the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality lasting until the 2026/27 financial period, now aims to arrange a lasting agreement with the new municipal leadership. The club wants the new Council to focus on a solid stadium deal for the team's future in the area.
While the stadium was being renovated, Chippa played at other grounds like Buffalo City Stadium, Kings Park Stadium in Durban, and some in Soweto. Their previous match at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium was a draw against Golden Arrows in May.
League context for Chiefs
Kaizer Chiefs go to the Eastern Cape placed fifth in the league, having earned 14 points from nine games. In their last five matches, they have won twice, drawn once, and lost twice, including a loss to Orlando Pirates. They have found the net 14 times this season and let in 10 goals. Chippa United are in seventh place with 11 points and approach the game following a win against Stellenbosch FC, which was their second league victory. The team's defense has been stronger lately. The full fixtures schedule indicates this is an important match for both clubs in a competitive part of the table, where points are valuable for keeping form before a busy period of games.
The game is set for Saturday, 28 November 2026 with a 15:30 start at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Tickets are likely to be available from official league sellers and the club's site soon, and a big attendance is expected for the stadium's reopening.
First reported at HeraldLIVE
