The long wait is almost over for the millions of Kaizer Chiefs fans around the globe who have been looking forward to the start of the new league season after enduring a prolonged break when the opening date of the campaign was extended by an extra six weeks.

Amakhosi will start their 55^th consecutive league season (29^th in PSL era) in South Africa’s top-flight with an excting match against Marumo Gallants at the Toyota stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday evening.

The much-awaited clash is Amakhosi’s first under new coach Nasreddine Nabi, who joined the team during the pre-season from AS Far in Morocco.

There is expected to be a full-house when Amakhosi visit Gallants - who have recently relocated from Polokwane to the City of Roses. Amakhosi were very well received in Bloemfontein when they played a friendly match against Young Africans in the Toyota Cup at the end July, with the Toyota stadium sold out a full three days before it kicked off.

Gallants return to the elite league after purchasing now-defunct Moroka Swallows’ Premiership status. They have also retained a number of players who donned the Dube Birds’ maroon colours last season, including seasoned campaigners such as Daniel Akpeyi, Gabadinho Mhango, Joseph Molangoane, Xola Mlambo and Kamohelo Mahlatsi.

Chiefs, who have bolstered their squad with seven new signings, present an intriguing prospect for coach Nabi’s debut. With the league's headline sponsor changing, Amakhosi will be determined to secure a victory in their first Betway Premiership match of the season.

Tickets for the match are available at TicketPro outlets around the country, priced at R50 for open stands and R60 for covered grandstands.

Amakhosi supporters are urged to purchase their new season merchandise and ensure they paint Bloemfontein Gold & Black this coming weekend for the team’s first Betway Premiership match of the 2024-25 season.

The season opener between Bahlabane ba Ntwa and the Phefeni Glamour Boys will kick off at 17:30 at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein.