August 2025 Sports Archive: What Happened in Soccer This Month?

August was a busy month for South African and international football. We saw a big loan deal, a tense CHAN match, a dramatic Italian friendly, and a crucial Champions League qualifier. Below is a quick rundown of the most talked‑about stories, packed with the details you need.

Monnapule Saleng heads to Orbit College on loan

Orlando Pirates sent striker Monnapule Saleng on a season‑long loan to newly promoted Orbit College. The move gave Saleng the chance to get regular minutes after six months on the bench. Coach Pogisho Makhoye, the man who first discovered Saleng, pushed for the deal, hoping it would boost both the player’s form and the North West club’s first top‑flight campaign in seven years. Saleng is clear about his goal: perform well, earn a national team recall, and help Orbit stay up.

CHAN 2025: Senegal held by Congo in a gritty Group D clash

The CHAN tournament in Zanzibar threw a curveball at the defending champions. Senegal needed a win against Congo, but the match ended 1‑1 after a late equaliser from Joseph Layousse. Congo’s early goal came from a header by Dechan Moussavou, and both sides left the field still in the hunt for a quarter‑final spot. The result pushed Senegal to four points, keeping their hopes alive but under pressure.

Inter Milan survives a nail‑biter against Monza

In a pre‑season friendly at the U‑Power Stadium, Inter Milan and Monza were deadlocked 2‑2 after regular time. The game went to penalties, and Inter edged out Monza 7‑5. The shootout gave fans a glimpse of how both squads might shape up for the 2025/26 season. Key players stepped up, and the tension showed that even friendlies can be as exciting as league matches.

Rangers vs Viktoria Plzeň: Champions League qualifier preview

Rangers travel to face Viktoria Plzeň on August 5 in a Champions League qualifying tie that could decide who moves on to the group stage. Rangers have struggled for form lately, while Plzeň rides an unbeaten streak. Expect an open, high‑scoring game, with both sides likely to field attacking line‑ups. Our betting guide points to a possible draw or a narrow win for Plzeň, but Rangers will be looking to surprise.

All these stories highlight the excitement that August delivered for football fans. Whether you follow local South African leagues or the big European competitions, the month offered plenty of drama, transfers, and moments that will shape the rest of the season.

If you missed any of these matches or want deeper analysis, keep checking Daily Herald Scope. We’ll bring you the latest updates, player interviews, and expert opinions as the season unfolds.