Luc Eymael Set to Debut as Chippa United Coach Against Orlando Pirates After Work Permit Approval
Luc Eymael Set to Debut as Chippa United Coach Against Orlando Pirates After Work Permit Approval. Chippa United’s new coach, Luc Eymael, has received his work permit and is set to take charge of his first match on the bench against Orlando Pirates on Sunday, 31 August 2025 (Today) , in the Betway Premiership. The game will be played at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.
Eymael’s Arrival Amid Controversy and High Expectations
The Belgian coach’s appointment at Chippa United has been marked by delays and debates, but with his work permit now sorted, Eymael is ready to lead the Chilli Boys from the touchline. He was unveiled earlier this month but missed the team’s first two league games—a 1-0 win over Richards Bay and a 2-0 loss to Sekhukhune United—while awaiting documentation. Assistant coach Sinethemba Badela handled those matches in his absence.
Eymael, 64, brings a wealth of experience from coaching across Africa, including stints in Tanzania, Egypt, and Algeria. However, his return to South Africa has stirred controversy due to past remarks. In 2020, while at Black Leopards, he was sacked after calling African fans “monkeys” in a leaked audio, leading to widespread backlash. The South African Football Association objected to his work permit, citing those comments, but it was granted nonetheless.
Despite the uproar, Eymael turned down lucrative offers from other clubs to join Chippa, showing his commitment to the project. “I have yet to receive my work permit, and to be honest, the club has not given me any mandate. They trust my work,” he said in a recent interview. Club chairman Siviwe Mpengesi praised Eymael’s tactical acumen, hoping he can stabilise a team known for frequent coach changes—Chippa has had over 20 coaches in the last decade.
Match Preview: Chippa United vs Orlando Pirates
The clash at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium kicks off at 15:00, with both teams looking to build early momentum in the 2025/26 season. Chippa sit mid-table after two games, with three points from their opening win but a recent defeat highlighting defensive frailties. Pirates, under coach Jose Riveiro, started with a 2-1 victory over Cape Town City but drew 1-1 with Mamelodi Sundowns, showing attacking flair but needing consistency.
Head-to-head, Pirates dominate, winning 19 of 26 meetings, with Chippa claiming just four victories and three draws. Recent form favours the Buccaneers, who have won the last five encounters, scoring 10 goals while conceding only two. Predictions lean towards a Pirates win, with odds around 1.50 for an away victory, but Eymael’s debut could inspire an upset.
Team news: Chippa may miss key defender Thabo Makhele due to injury, but striker Andile Mbenyane is expected to lead the line. Pirates welcome back midfielder Miguel Timm from suspension, boosting their engine room. The match promises intensity, with Pirates aiming to climb the table and Chippa seeking points to avoid early relegation worries.
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