CAPE TOWN – Defending champions Orlando Pirates and rivals Kaizer Chiefs opened their 2026/27 Betway Premiership campaigns with impressive victories as five opening-round fixtures took centre stage on Saturday.
Pirates began the defence of their league title with a comfortable 2-0 victory over newcomers Milford FC at Orlando Stadium. Oswin Appollis handed the Buccaneers the lead in the 23rd minute with a superb right-footed free-kick.
Tshepang Moremi sealed the victory six minutes from time, finishing off after being set up by Lebone Seema.
Chiefs also enjoyed a dream start, overcoming Kruger United 3-1 at Mbombela Stadium. Striker Flavio Silva put Amakhosi ahead after just six minutes, but Khetukuthula Ndlovu restored parity for United moments before the halftime whistle.
Chiefs dominated after the break as Wandile Duba struck twice in the 57th and 66th minutes to secure all three points and send Chiefs to the top of the standings after the opening day.
Sekhukhune United claimed a narrow 1-0 home victory over Durban City at Seshego Stadium in Limpopo, with Bright Ndlovu’s 26th-minute strike proving enough to separate the sides.
AmaZulu FC also made a winning start after edging Stellenbosch FC 1-0 at Sugar Ray Xulu Stadium in Umlazi. Thando Ngwenya converted from the penalty spot in the 59th minute to hand Usuthu maximum points.
Meanwhile, Golden Arrows and Chippa United shared the spoils in a goalless draw at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium in Durban, with neither side able to find the breakthrough.
The opening round continues on Sunday when Richards Bay welcome Polokwane City, while Siwelele FC host TS Galaxy.
