Final-day drama: Premiership battles set for decisive Saturday showdowns
Oscarine Masuluke Stellenbosch currently hold the crucial third-place spot in the Premiership. Here, Stellies goalkeeper Oscarine Masuluke celebrates. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
As the Premiership gears up for a spectacular Saturday with six matches kicking off simultaneously at 3pm, the schedule is brimming with intense rivalries and the potential for unexpected twists.
The teams will be vying for crucial points that could shape their seasons.
Each club brings its own narrative, and the outcomes have the potential to reshape the Premiership log on a day that marks the final matches for 12 teams.
Four other teams – Orlando Pirates, Magesi FC, Golden Arrows, and SuperSport United – each have one outstanding fixture following Saturday's round.
Every goal scored and every point earned will matter more than ever, with several positions potentially being decided on goal difference as the PSL season reaches its climax.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
CAF Confederation Cup ticket
A gripping showdown is set as Stellenbosch FC and Sekhukhune United battle for a coveted place in next season's CAF Confederation Cup.
With just one match remaining, the stakes could not be higher. Stellenbosch currently sit third, holding a slender one-point lead.
Their route to continental football is straightforward: a victory in their derby clash against Cape Town City on Saturday would seal qualification, securing a second consecutive appearance on the African stage.
However, if they draw or lose, the door opens for Sekhukhune, who will be looking to take full advantage with a win at Lamontville Golden Arrows in Durban.
Should Stellenbosch lose and Sekhukhune draw, goal difference will determine who earns the final Confederation Cup ticket in what has become a tightly contested race.
No holds barred in Top 8 scramble
The race for the final MTN8 spots is heating up, with a frantic fight to fill the remaining three positions.
Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Stellenbosch, Sekhukhune and TS Galaxy (who, like Sundowns, have completed their league campaign with 28 games) have already secured their berths in this prestigious tournament.
AmaZulu, in sixth with 34 points, appear safe thanks to their superior goal difference, giving them a comfortable cushion.
That leaves six clubs in a fierce struggle to claim the final two slots: Polokwane City (33 points), Kaizer Chiefs (31), Chippa United (31 from 28 games), Marumo Gallants (31), Richards Bay (30) and Magesi (29).
Polokwane could secure their spot even with a draw or loss against Chiefs.
For the others, victory is essential if they are to secure a place in next season's Top 8 – setting the stage for a nail-biting finale.
One more to go. But before we close the chapter, let's rewind to Jaedin's goal last time out 🔥
Let's finish strong 💪 pic.twitter.com/oSpq7TJdTS — Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) May 22, 2025
Promotion-relegation play-offs awash with uncertainty
Following Royal AM's expulsion, no club faces automatic relegation, but the team finishing 15th will enter the PSL promotion-relegation playoffs against two First Division sides.
The battle to avoid this fate is tight, with three teams still at risk: Lamontville Golden Arrows (26 games, 27 points), SuperSport United (26 games, 26 points) and Cape Town City (27 games, 26 points).
If City lose to Stellenbosch on Saturday, they will be consigned to the play-offs – unless SuperSport fail to win either of their two remaining fixtures.
Should both clubs end on 26 points, goal difference will determine who drops into the playoff zone.
Arrows are best positioned to escape danger, but back-to-back defeats – against Sekhukhune and SuperSport – could see them slide into trouble.
After Saturday's action, the final picture will come into focus when Arrows and SuperSport replay their abandoned February fixture, wrapping up what has been a turbulent and unpredictable season.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Citizen
11 hours ago
- The Citizen
Tepid Bafana held by Tanzania
Hugo Broos' experimental Bafana side battled to break down Tanzania. Oswin Appollis was Bafana's best player in the first half. Picture: Alche Greeff/BackpagePix An experimental Bafana Bafana failed to spark against Tanzania in an unremarkable goalless draw at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday. ALSO READ: Orlando Pirates release Chiefs-linked defender Hugo Broos may well have got what he needed to out of watching several players making their Bafana debuts in this international friendly. And the Belgian's competitive record is spectacular enough to suggest it will be put to good use in September's Fifa World Cup qualifiers. Bafana struggle This was a painful watch in general, however, as Bafana laboured to break down a Tanzanian side that seemed content with a draw from kick off. Three players were handed their Bafana debuts from the start against Tanzania. Orlando Pirates pair Deano Van Rooyen and Simphiwe Selepe along with TS Galaxy's Khulumani Ndumane got their chance to shine on the international stage. It was one of Bafana's regulars, Oswin Appollis, who shone in the first half. In just the fourth minute, the Polokwane City forward pounced on a mistake in the Tanzania penalty area, but his effort was cleared off the line. On the half hour mark, a neat passing move found Thalente Mbatha in space on the edge of the box, but he fired way off target. And on the stroke of half time, it was Appollis who threatened again, his long-range strike comfortably saved by Tanzania goalkeeper Suleiman Ali. In truth, the first half was a difficult watch, with neither side really able to string too much together in the attacking third. Greater intent Bafana came out with far more intent after the break. Tshepang Moremi nearly latched onto Mbatha's fine long range pass. Moremi then saw his fizzing long-range effort tipped wide by Ali. ALSO READ: Rulani speaks out on Pirates rumours Broos rang the substitutions as the game wore on. Sekhukhune goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner replaced Ricardo Goss to make his Bafana debut. Pirates winger Mohau Nkota also got on the pitch for his debut, while Relebohile Mofokeng entered the field at the same time. And Mofokeng blew a great chance to score in stoppage time when he was gifted possession and chipped the ball over Ali but onto the roof of the net.
IOL News
15 hours ago
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns aiming for glory at revamped FIFA Club World Cup
Themba Zwane Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane, seen here receiving the Premiership trophy. Hopefully, the fan favourite Themba Zwane makes the squad for FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in the United States this June. They secured their spot after a landmark African Champions League victory. In Japan, their journey was cut short after they were defeated by the Kashima Antlers. Reflecting on their previous venture outside Africa, Sundowns faced a harsh reality during the 2016 Club World Cup in Japan, where they did not secure a single victory. Their participation creates a platform for the club to showcase its talent against elite sides from Europe, South America, and Asia. The team is set to face formidable group opponents, including Borussia Dortmund—2024 UEFA Champions League runners-up, Brazil's Fluminense, and South Korea's Ulsan. The South African giants have secured their spot in the expanded 32-team tournament, which features a quartet of African representatives. It has been eight years since their last appearance in this international competition. This time, however, they aim to make a lasting impression against some of the world's leading football clubs. Mamelodi Sundowns are gearing up to compete in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, hosted in the United States this June, as they eagerly anticipate a return to the global stage. Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Subsequently, the team fell to a staggering 4-1 loss to Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in the fifth-place playoff, with Percy Tau's solitary goal the sole highlight of an otherwise disappointing campaign. Fast forward to the present, and Sundowns have embraced the lessons learned from that experience. The team's strategy is poised for a notable shift as they prepare for matches in the US. Unlike the dominant style they are accustomed to in the Premier Soccer League's Premiership, Sundowns' coaching staff has indicated a more measured approach and recognised the level of skill and experience they will face on the global stage. As part of their preparations, Sundowns will conduct their final training at the prestigious IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, a facility renowned for developing top-tier athletic talent. This world-class training environment aims to provide the team with the best possible chance of success in the tournament. The new look FIFA Club World Cup kicks off on June 15, and for Sundowns, this is more than just another tournament. It's an opportunity to put African football on the map and to demonstrate their potential against some of the best clubs in the world. After the heart-wrenching experience of the CAF Champions League final defeat, the SA giants are now poised to seize an extraordinary opportunity, one that comes with the promise of substantial financial gain at the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the USA. With a staggering R180 million up for grabs, the prize money dwarfs the combined earnings accrued from their recent exploits, runners-up in Africa and domestic league title holders. The Club World Cup's new format, which features eight groups of four teams, transforms each match into a lucrative affair. A single victory in the group stages is now valued at an impressive $2 million, marking a significant shift in how club football rewards success. But the financial potential does not end there. For Sundowns, the more they advance in the tournament, the more they stand to gain. The winners of the prestigious event will walk away with a staggering $40 million. A perfect run throughout the tournament could see the overall prize total soar to an astonishing $125 million. This monetary landscape presents an unparalleled chance for Sundowns to enhance their financial stability, improve their operational capabilities, and renew their aspirations on the continental stage. Capitalising on such lucrative prospects is crucial, and every player will need to bring their A-game should they wish to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime chance. Financial implications apart, it is also a pivotal moment for Sundowns to solidify their reputation and influence in global football. The journey ahead will undoubtedly be fraught with challenges, but the rewards could reshape the club's finances and also redefine its legacy in African football. As the countdown to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup begins, all eyes will be on Sundowns, a team that stands at the intersection of heartbreak and hope, ready to embark on a thrilling path towards history.
The South African
18 hours ago
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs to profile 17 players abroad
Percy Tau at Qatar SC and Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi at the FNB Stadium. Images: Goal Kaizer Chiefs face high pressure to sign new players ahead of next season's 2025/26 Betway Premiership and CAF Confederation Cup. In March, coach Nasreddine Nabi revealed in the media that Amakhosi, thanks to the Thabo Cele deal, were taking a new direction to focus on South African players abroad because of continuing difficulties signing local players. Here's a list of the most high-profile players Kaizer Chiefs will undoubtedly consider and likely enquire about. Breaking News: Orlando Pirates defender to Kaizer Chiefs Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi flanked by the club's Sporting Director Kaizer Motaung Jr (left) and the Football Manager Bobby Motaung (right). Image: Goal Kaizer Chiefs to have a new number 6 and number 7 SA PLAYERS ABROAD TARGETS Mheli Mabuza, 24, right-back, Louletano (Portugal) According to local reports, Mabuza has already returned to Mzansi and started to train with Kaizer Chiefs a week before the final match of last season. Elias Mokwana, 25, winger, Esperance (Tunisia) Reports from Tunisia this week say that Kaizer Chiefs have submitted an offer to sign the Bafana Bafana winger. Percy Tau, 31, Forward, Free Agent The former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly attacker left Qatar SC as a free agent. The club confirmed the news on Thursday via social media. Full List: Mhleli Mabuza, 24, right-back, Louletano (Portugal) Elias Mokwana, 25, winger, Esperance (Tunisia) Percy Tau, 31, forward, free agent Khanyisa Mayo, 26, forward, CR Belouizdad (Algeria) Luther Singh, 27, forward, AEL Limassol (Cyprus) Gift Links, 26 Left-wing-back, Aarhus GF (Denmark) Nkanyiso Shinga, 25, left back, FC Alverca(Portugal) Sphephelo Sithole, 26, midfielder, Gel Vinente (Portugal) Darren Smith, 29, striker, Detroit City (USA) Luke Le Roux, 25, midfielder, Varnamo (Sweden) Fagrie Lakay, 28, forward, Pyramids FC (Egypt) Mihlali Mayambela, 28, winger, Aris Limassol (Cyprus) Liam Jordan, 26, striker, Brommapojkarna (Sweden) Lebogang Phiri, 30, midfielder, Guingamp (France) Katlego Ntsabeleng, 26, attacking midfielder, Dallas (USA) Bongokuhle Hlongwane, 24, forward, Minnesota Kurt Abrahams, 28, forward, SK Beveren (Belgium). Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
