Excitement filled the air as the Kaizer Chiefs' DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) youngsters arrived in Manchester for their highly anticipated tour.
The team touched down in the United Kingdom on Wednesday afternoon after an arduous 16-hour journey that included a layover in Dubai.
This trip marks a historic achievement for the Amakhosi, coming on the heels of their recent triumph as DDC champions, a milestone they reached for the first time in the tournament's history, amassing an impressive 70 points during the past season.
The young players are eager to showcase their talent on this international stage, a reward for their hard work and dedication.
During their upcoming tour, the Chiefs will face a series of friendly matches, providing an opportunity to gauge their progress against prominent teams.
They will compete against Manchester United on Friday, 28 November, followed by a match against Leeds United on 2 December, and finally, an encounter with the Queens Park Rangers U21 squad as part of an 11-day excursion through the United Kingdom.
Captain Thulani Mabaso reflected on the trip, expressing that while it may seem lengthy, the experience promises to be invaluable.
"We spent about 16 hours flying, but at the end of the day, it was worth it. We are happy to be here. The weather was just okay, not too cold," stated Mabaso.
"I am grateful for the opportunity that I have received to be where I am today. And I was with the first team in the Netherlands during pre-season. So, I will use that experience and share it with the rest of the team, so that we go out there and compete."
Mabaso: "I'm looking forward to playing the game (against Man United), not the occasion. Manchester United are a big team, and we are also a big team."
Gopolang Taunyana added that they are here for business. "We are here to win, to show them that there's also football in South Africa."
During this tour, Amakhosi would also tour the theatre of dreams, Old Trafford Stadium.
It's time ✈️✈️ UK #KCReserves #KCYDA #Amakhosi4Life #FutureOfAmakhosi #DDCChampions #KCUKTour pic.twitter.com/fOQDBlcw7R
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) November 25, 2025