Vitesse and Kaizer Chiefs Face Off in Friendly Match
Pre-season game allows teams to test strategies and integrate new players.
An international friendly match between **Vitesse** and **Kaizer Chiefs** offers both teams a valuable opportunity to prepare for their respective seasons. For **Vitesse**, it’s a chance to recalibrate after a challenging year, while the **Kaizer Chiefs** aim to fine-tune their squad under coach **Nasreddine Nabi**.
The Return of **Berden**
**Berden**, a player with past ties to **Vitesse**, is set to feature in the friendly. Though he never debuted for **Vitesse’s** first team after joining from **PSV’s** youth academy in 2016, **Berden’s** experience in the Eredivisie and Eerste Divisie could prove valuable.
He brings a wealth of experience, with 24 appearances in the Eredivisie and 112 in the Eerste Divisie.
Friendly Matches: More Than Just a Game
Friendly matches are played outside of official competitions, meaning the results do not impact standings or titles. They offer a vital space for teams to refine tactics and evaluate player performance.
Coaches use these matches to test new strategies, assess the group’s performance, and integrate younger players. They also allow players to regain competitive rhythm after injury. According to ESPN, 75% of professional soccer teams use friendly matches to prepare for major tournaments (ESPN).
**Kaizer Chiefs** Prepare for Upcoming Season
During the 2024-25 season, the **Kaizer Chiefs** competed in the Betway Premiership (Premier Soccer League) under the guidance of coach **Nasreddine Nabi**. Their main home is the FNB Stadium, though they also used Moses Mabhida and Peter Mokaba as alternative stadiums.
Vitesse’s Relegation Woes
**Vitesse** faced significant difficulties in the 2023-24 Eredivisie season. The team finished in last place and was relegated after an 18-point deduction due to licensing violations.
The KNVB’s revocation of their professional license compounded these issues, creating a precarious situation for the club.