Betway Premiership 2025/26: Full Weekend Fixture Preview and What to Expect
The Betway Premiership 2025/26 season officially kicks off this weekend, with all 16 clubs set to take the field across Saturday and Sunday. This promises to be a blockbuster opening round. With fresh faces, new coaches, and plenty of ambition, this season’s start comes with plenty of intrigue and high expectations.
Sundowns Begin Title Defence in Gqeberha
Defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns launch their campaign with an away trip to Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Head coach Miguel Cardoso has been vocal about not resting on past success. He urged his players to operate at an even higher level than last season.
“We want to improve, and we understand every game carries risk. You can lose any match if you’re not sharp—last season proved that,” said Cardoso. He recalled how a big win over Pirates was followed by an unexpected defeat.
Orlando Pirates Eye Fast Start Against Sekhukhune
Orlando Pirates host Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium, looking to continue the momentum from their recent MTN8 win over Polokwane City. New coach Abdeslam Ouaddou wants to maintain that winning mentality. He emphasizes this especially with fans expected to fill the stands once again.
“Our fans showed up in full voice last weekend. We hope they do so again and push the boys to another strong performance,” said Ouaddou.
Newcomers Step into the Spotlight
Two newly promoted clubs are set for their top-flight debuts this weekend. Orbit College begin their journey against AmaZulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium. It is a big test in Durban against an experienced side. Meanwhile, Durban City will travel to Nelspruit for a tough clash against TS Galaxy on Sunday. They’ve armed themselves well in the off-season and brought in seasoned coach Gavin Hunt.
Orbit’s arrival has created a buzz, but many wonder whether the newcomers can handle the physical and mental toll of a full Premiership season. Cape Town Spurs learned not long ago that the step up is steep.
Siwelele Returns with a Roar
Arguably the most emotionally charged fixture this weekend sees Bloemfontein’s Siwelele make their long-awaited Premiership return. They host Golden Arrows at the Dr Molemela Stadium. Fans in the city are expected to turn up in large numbers to support the beloved club.
Siwelele winger Lyle Lakay emphasised the difference their loyal supporters will make: “Bloemfontein has been craving football. This will be something different, something louder, more passionate.”
Limpopo Derby Adds Local Flavour
Another highlight is the Limpopo derby between Polokwane City and Magesi FC at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium. While both teams are eager to make early statements, the focus is also on Magesi’s transition. They’ve gone under new management after parting ways with coach Owen da Gama.
Sunday Double-Header Closes the Weekend
Sunday features just two fixtures, with TS Galaxy facing Durban City and Kaizer Chiefs visiting Stellenbosch FC in Cape Town. New Amakhosi boss Nasreddine Nabi is optimistic about a turnaround season. He believes the squad is heading in the right direction.
“I’m seeing improvement in the group. This year, we’ll be better,” said Nabi. Chiefs fans will be eager to see whether that confidence translates on the pitch. They are hoping for change after back-to-back years outside the top eight.
What to Expect This Betway Premiership 2025/26 Season
With the campaign split by a lengthy Africa Cup of Nations break, it’s difficult to predict how teams will manage form and fatigue. Still, Mamelodi Sundowns remain clear favorites for the title. Orlando Pirates look best placed to challenge, having consistently been the closest rivals in recent years.
CAF Champions League qualification will likely be a fight between Sundowns, Pirates, and perhaps a dark horse like Sekhukhune United. Stellenbosch FC and AmaZulu also have the credentials for a top-four finish. They must contend with player departures and squad depth.
The battle for the top eight is set to be as congested as ever, with TS Galaxy, Golden Arrows, and Kaizer Chiefs in the mix. On the other end of the table, Magesi FC’s uncertainty and Orbit College’s lack of top-flight experience could put them in relegation trouble early on.
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