by Dzudzie Faith Netshisaulu
The 2026/27 Betway Premiership season is officially underway, and the opening weekend delivered an intriguing mix of dominant performances, surprise results and early statements from some of the league’s biggest contenders.
Kaizer Chiefs emerged as one of the biggest winners of the weekend after kicking off their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over promoted Kruger United. A brace from Wandile Duba and a goal from Flavio da Silva ensured Amakhosi claimed maximum points, providing an early boost to Fernando da Cruz’s side as they look to build momentum this season.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates also began on the right foot, easing to a comfortable 2-0 win over Milford FC. The Buccaneers looked composed throughout and wasted little time in laying down an early marker in their title defence.
Elsewhere, AmaZulu produced one of the weekend’s notable upsets with a 1-0 away victory over Stellenbosch FC, while Sekhukhune United edged Durban City by the same scoreline to collect three valuable opening-day points. Golden Arrows and Chippa United cancelled each other out in a goalless draw, highlighting just how competitive the league promises to be this season. Polokwane City also made a winning start, coming from behind to beat Richards Bay 2-1 away from home.
After just one round of fixtures, it is far too early to draw firm conclusions, but Chiefs, Pirates and Polokwane City have given themselves the ideal platform, while promoted Kruger United and Milford FC have already been reminded of the demands of top-flight football.
If the opening weekend is anything to go by, supporters can expect another fiercely contested Betway Premiership season, with every point likely to prove crucial in the race for silverware, continental qualification and survival.
With Mamelodi Sundowns still to begin their title pursuit and several clubs already making early statements, the opening weekend has set the stage for what promises to be another fiercely contested Betway Premiership season.
