The Betway Premiership served up an electrifying weekend of football from April 24–26, 2026, with results that have left the title race hanging by a thread. From the drama of the Soweto Derby to tactical triumphs in Limpopo, South African football proved once again why it’s in a league of its own.
Honors Even in the 185th Soweto Derby
The FNB Stadium was the epicenter of South African football on Sunday as it hosted the 185th edition of the legendary Soweto Derby. A 45-minute delay to allow for crowd safety only heightened the anticipation, and the intensity was evident as soon as the match kicked off. After a goalless first half, Pule Mmodi broke the deadlock for Kaizer Chiefs in the 62nd minute, sending the Amakhosi faithful into raptures. But Kamogelo Sebelebele had other plans, as he equalized for Orlando Pirates in the 75th minute. The match ended 1-1, keeping Pirates at the top, albeit with only a narrow advantage.
Polokwane City Stun Stellenbosch
In a dramatic encounter at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, Polokwane City delivered the shock result of the weekend, securing a 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC. A late strike earned Rise and Shine all three points, significantly boosting their Top 8 aspirations. For Stellenbosch, however, the defeat was a setback in their bid to secure CAF qualification, as they squandered several key chances.
Sundowns and Galaxy Held to Stalemates
Mamelodi Sundowns missed a golden opportunity to close the gap on the leaders, playing out a frustrating goalless draw against Richards Bay at the uMhlathuze Stadium. Despite dominating possession, the defending champions could not break down a well-organized Richards Bay defense, leaving the title race wide open.
Similarly, TS Galaxy and Magesi FC ended in a 0-0 draw at Mbombela Stadium, with both teams desperate for points. For Galaxy, the draw does little to ease their relegation worries, while Magesi FC will feel they needed the win to improve their survival chances.
Usuthu Run Riot in Durban
The most dominant performance of the weekend came from AmaZulu FC at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, where they dismantled Chippa United 5-1. After falling behind early, Usuthu responded with five unanswered goals, keeping their slim Top 3 hopes alive and sending a statement to the rest of the league.
Betway Premiership Weekend Results (April 24–26, 2026):
- 26 Apr: Orlando Pirates 1–1 Kaizer Chiefs
- 26 Apr: Richards Bay 0–0 Mamelodi Sundowns
- 26 Apr: Polokwane City 1–0 Stellenbosch FC
- 26 Apr: TS Galaxy 0–0 Magesi FC
- 25 Apr: AmaZulu FC 5–1 Chippa United
- 25 Apr: Sekhukhune United 1–1 Marumo Gallants
- 24 Apr: Durban City 1–1 Orbit College
- 24 Apr: Golden Arrows 0–0 Siwelele
Looking Ahead: The Race for the Top Heats Up
This weekend’s results have set the stage for a nail-biting conclusion to the Betway Premiership season. Orlando Pirates remain at the top, but with Mamelodi Sundowns and other challengers still in the hunt, every point is now crucial. The middle and lower half of the table is also heating up, with teams fighting for survival and coveted CAF spots. As we head into the final stretch, expect more drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments in South African football’s top-flight league.
