On Sunday, 17 May 2026, history will be written at Tsakane Stadium.

After months of anticipation and years of expectation, Kaizer Chiefs Ladies will finally play their first official match when they face Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies in the opening fixture of the 2026 Gauteng Women's Provincial League season.

For many clubs, an opening game marks the start of a campaign, yet this occasion carries far greater significance for Chiefs. It represents the Club’s long-awaited official entry into competitive women’s football, a landmark moment for one of Africa’s biggest sporting institutions and a defining step in the continued rise of the women’s game in South Africa.

The road to this moment has been long, demanding, and emotional. Since January, the team has been immersed in preseason preparations, building not only fitness and tactical understanding, but also the identity of a completely new football project. Now, the waiting is over.

The Gauteng Women's Provincial League officially kicks off this weekend, and the Glamour Girls enter a competition that has become one of the most important foundations of women’s football development in South Africa. The league has produced some of the country’s finest talent and continues to serve as a critical pathway within the women’s game. The arrival of Kaizer Chiefs into this space has already generated enormous attention, adding further momentum and visibility to a rapidly growing football movement.

Standing on the touchline for this historic occasion will be head coach Unathi Mabena, who understands both the magnitude of the moment and the responsibility that comes with it. “The players are excited, but naturally there is also anxiety because this is such a big occasion for everyone involved,” Mabena says, “To represent the biggest football brand in the country is an honour and the players understand the responsibility that comes with wearing this badge.”

Mabena knows the demands of the League well, having competed in it herself during her playing career. She believes perspective and patience will be important as the newly formed side begins its league journey against one of the most established teams in women’s football. “We also have to be realistic and manage expectations,” she explains, “We are facing a team that has been competing consistently in this environment for a long time and has produced strong performances over the years. For us, this is the beginning of a process. We are building something, and moments like these are part of that journey.”

Entry to the match is free and kick off is at 13h00.