In anticipation of this week’s 1430th edition of Soccer Laduma, we preview some of the features and interviews included. The latest edition will be available at your nearest outlet on Thursday, 26th June 2025.
ABDESLAM OUADDOU
When Orlando Pirates recently announced Abdeslam Ouaddou as their new coach on Monday, they signalled the start of a bold new chapter. For many South African football fans, Ouaddou’s name may still be relatively new, but his impact has already been felt in the Betway Premiership. A former Moroccan international with a decorated playing career across Europe, Ouaddou brings both pedigree and a no-nonsense approach to coaching. His rise has been steady and deliberate, marked by clarity, discipline, and a firm belief in professional standards. So, what can Pirates expect from the 46-year-old new tactician? Find out, as we discuss this key appointment in this Soccer Laduma feature.
KAIZER CHIEFS
After Kaizer Chiefs ended their decadelong trophy drought, the time has arrived to hand out player ratings for the 2024/25 season. Did any players exceed expectations? Which squad members fell below the level required? In this comprehensive report card, we investigate and assess the season's performance of every member of the Glamour Boys squad.
SIYA SPECIAL
The South African football offseason has always represented a natural juncture for introspection—an opportunity for clubs to take stock, reassess their vision, and prepare for the upcoming season. But 2025 has introduced a new dimension to this transitional period. A staggering volume of player exits has surfaced across Betway Premiership sides. More than 50 players from just six top flight clubs have already been shown the door—and the release lists continues to grow. For some, these changes signify ambition and freshness. For others, they suggest chaos and a worrying lack of continuity. The Siya crew investigates: What is fuelling these sweeping exits?
Also In Issue 1430…
Renaldo Leaner
When Mamelodi Sundowns played Sekhukhune United in the Nedbank Cup quarter-finals in March, they came out guns blazing, firing from all angles, only to be denied by goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner. The former Ajax Cape Town goal-minder stood between defeat and Sundowns’ victory with his Man of the Match performance, and it took Jayden Adams’ 118th minute goal in extra time to beat him. In this interview with Soccer Laduma, Leaner reveals how gutted he was in the cup loss, discusses his favourite player of all time, and shares his thoughts on Sundowns’ performance at the FIFA Club World Cup.
International Feature
South American sides occupy top spots in five of the six FIFA Club World Cup groups that include them, and this has caught much of the football fraternity by surprise. Botafogo progressed to the knockout stages after finishing second in their group behind Paris Saint-Germain, while Flamengo, Fluminense, Palmeiras and River Plate have all taken major strides at the global spectacle in an attempt to make it to the Round of 16. These extraordinary achievements have occurred through their distinctive style of play, along with apparent passion and determination. Soccer Laduma takes an in-depth look at the factors that have contributed to the success of South American football and what lessons South African sides can learn — with the help of former Orlando Pirates coach Augusto Palacios.
Revolving Column
This week we hear from former midfielder Brent Carelse on Sundowns’ Club World Cup matches.
Siyagobhoza
In this week’s edition of the popular Siyagobhoza section, North African teams are interested in Edmilson Dove, Sundowns hold all the cards in Thembinkosi Lorch’s future and we reveal the big stumbling block in Thapelo Maseko’s Sundowns exit.
Grab a copy of the latest edition of Soccer Laduma at your nearest outlet tomorrow. Don’t miss out!
