Ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender Aden McCarthy’s Sabah have been handed some tough fixtures in the 2026-27 Champions League, including trips to Arsenal and Man United.
Former Kaizer Chiefs star McCarthy gets tough Champions League draw
Aden McCarthy’s Kazakhstani side FC Sabah will test themselves against the best Europe has to offer this season. After overcoming Hapoel Be’er Sheva 6–5 on aggregate following an extra-time win, their reward is a place in the Champions League group stages for the first time in their history. McCarthy and his teammates will face, among others, last season’s runners-up Arsenal, English giants Man United and five-time European champions, Barcelona. Full fixtures below, with dates to be confirmed:
- Arsenal vs Sabah
- Man United vs Sabah
- Sabah vs FC Barcelona
- Sabah vs Borussia Dortmund
- Sabah vs Napoli
- Sabah vs Slavia Praha
- Viking vs Sabah
- Villarreal vs Sabah
Chiefs remain unbeaten in the league
Kaizer Chiefs’ new boss has started life in decent shape, defeat in the MTN8 notwithstanding. Unbeaten after three Betway Premiership matches, the Glamour Boys held Sundowns to a 1-1 draw but followed it with a 2-2 draw at Richards Bay in the torrential rain. Next up is a home clash with Siwelele on Saturday, 5 September.
A new formation for Kaizer Chiefs
Chiefs boss Fernando Da Cruz opted for a back three against Sundowns, and it worked relatively well. They got a 1-1 draw, and limited Sundowns to an xG figure of 0.63 and just two shots on target. Langelihle Phili was on the score sheet, and Siphesihle Ndlovu provided the assist. This new tactical setup has provided a surprise route back into the first team for Pule Mmodi at wing-back. With competition for wide attacking places looking stiff, perhaps Mmodi can reinvent himself. Mmodi also started in Wednesday’s 2-2 draw with Richards Bay.