Kaizer Chiefs Set to Host Second Edition of Toyota Cup
Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly preparing to host the second edition of the Toyota Cup, with plans already in motion between the club and their long-time commercial partner, Toyota South Africa. Following the inaugural edition last year, which saw Amakhosi suffer a 4-0 defeat to Tanzanian giants Yanga SC, the Glamour Boys are eager for a stronger showing in the 2025 edition.
Sources close to both Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota South Africa have revealed that the return of the Toyota Cup is all but confirmed, with logistics said to be largely finalised. The partnership between the Soweto giants and the automotive sponsor is understood to be part of a long-term plan, making this tournament an annual fixture in Chiefs’ pre-season calendar.
“The Toyota Cup is definitely happening again this season. The two entities involved in the Cup, that’s Kaizer Chiefs and Toyota South Africa, made the commitment that it’s not a one-year and once-off Cup,” a source told Soccer Laduma. “They are just looking at possible dates, and the venue could still be in Bloemfontein at Toyota Stadium. But it’s believed that it’s happening again this year.”
While the venue appears likely to remain the same, the major decision still pending is the selection of an international opponent. Last year’s fixture featured Yanga SC, the former club of current Chiefs head coach Nasreddine Nabi, which added an intriguing subplot to the clash. This year, the organisers are reportedly still exploring options for which foreign team to invite.
“Most of the logistics will be finalised when they find out which team will be coming to play against Chiefs in that Toyota Cup,” another insider explained. “It could be the same Yanga or another team. We are not sure at the moment. So they cannot finalise anything until they first identify and agree with the team that will come. But the Toyota Cup is going ahead.”
Despite attempts to get an official comment from the club, Chiefs have yet to release any formal confirmation regarding the tournament’s details. However, the anticipation is already building, particularly among fans eager to see how the team will shape up ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The return of the Toyota Cup offers Kaizer Chiefs more than just a competitive warm-up. It represents an opportunity to test new signings, trial tactical changes under coach Nabi, and build momentum ahead of the new campaign. Additionally, it continues to solidify the club’s commercial relationship with Toyota, one of the most prominent sponsors in South African football.
Should Yanga SC be invited again, it would add an extra layer of intrigue to the match. However, a new opponent could also provide a fresh and challenging test. Either way, Amakhosi will be hoping to put on a stronger performance than last year and use the occasion as a springboard for a more successful season.
