By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@KaizerChiefs.
Kaizer Chiefs confirmed that young defender Aden McCarthy has officially completed a permanent transfer to Azerbaijan Premier League club Sabah FK.
The 22-year-old penned a three-year contract with an option for an additional year, giving him the opportunity to compete in the qualifying rounds of the UEFA Champions League.
“We can confirm that we have agreed to release Aden after being approached by Sabah FK.We are proud that he will compete in the qualifying round of next season’s UEFA Champions League,” says Sporting Director, Kaizer Motaung Jr.
McCarthy’s journey with the Glamour Boys began in the youth ranks as a young teenager, where he featured across various development divisions, including the reserve side, which competes in the DStv Diski Challenge. His consistent performances eventually earned him a first team debut toward the end of the 2024/25 season, before cementing his place in the squad last year.
He made 33 appearances across all competitions in his first full campaign with the senior team. He even found the back of the net twice, helping the Glamour Boys secure a third-place finish in the Betway Premiership and qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup.
Meanwhile Chiefs have launched the 2026 edition of the Toyota Cup, confirming they will face Scottland FC.
Chiefs invited Zimbabwean side Scottland FC, the team of former Amakhosi stars Khama Billiat and Knowledge Musona. The match will be played at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace in Rustenburg on 26 July.
Jessica Motaung, Marketing Director of Kaizer Chiefs, comments, “We are delighted to welcome back the Toyota Cup for the third consecutive year. The match is important preparation for the team and new coach before we kick off the 2026/27 season. Reflecting on the past two editions fills us with pride, and we are grateful to Toyota for their continued partnership and support. We also extend our appreciation to the Royal Bafokeng Sports Palace and the Royal Family for once again opening their doors to us.”
Toyota has reaffirmed its commitment to supporters with another vehicle giveaway competition. The prize for the past two years has been a Toyota Corolla Cross. This year, one fan in attendance will win an amazing new generation Toyota Hilux Double Cab 2.8 GD-6 RB SRX 6AT, with the draw to be conducted live at halftime of the main match. Entry requires a ticket purchase and SMS registration. Consolation prizes will also be awarded to finalists, ensuring multiple fans benefit from the initiative.
Toyota South Africa Motors’ General Manager; Marketing and Communications, Tasneem Lorgat, adds, “Collaborating with Kaizer Chiefs to bring top African opposition has been immensely rewarding. Equally important is our tradition of rewarding loyal supporters with brand new motor vehicle giveaways in each edition. This year, we continue that legacy with a new Toyota Hilux Double Cab prize, reinforcing our commitment to the fans who are the heartbeat of the game. Importantly, we will do community outreach within Rustenburg as part of our Heart on Sleeve initiative. We really look forward to another successful event this year.”
The Toyota Cup serves as a vital preparatory fixture for Chiefs, who are set to compete in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup. Facing a formidable side such as Scottland FC provides valuable competitive experience in the service of the Club’s continental ambitions.
“We are thankful to Scottland FC for coming on board and are looking forward to giving our supporters a glimpse of the team with the new coach and his technical team before the season starts,” Motaung continues, “The team will also be wearing our new home and away kits for the first time in the match. There’s a lot in store for our supporters and we encourage them to get their tickets early and ensure they book their seats.”
Tickets for the Toyota Cup are on sale through Computicket, Shoprite and Checkers from 9 June 2026 at R80 per ticket. Suite tickets and hospitality packages will be communicated in due course.