Goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner of Sekhukhune United held a rampaging Mamelodi Sundowns at bay for most of their Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
As the Betway Premiership approaches its thrilling climax, the fate of several teams hangs in the balance, making the year-end standings a true lottery.
With just a handful of matches left to play, the competition remains fierce, with several teams scrambling for coveted places in the top eight and others fighting desperately to avoid the dreaded drop into the lower tier.
However, the standout moment from Mzansi’s weekend football action belongs to the previously unheralded Renaldo Leaner, who rose like a colossus in the Sundowns vs Sekhukhune Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash. He was, without doubt, the country’s standout performer this weekend.
Cape Town-born goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner of Sekhukhune United held the star-studded Mamelodi Sundowns scoreless for 90 minutes, forcing Saturday’s Nedbank Cup quarter-final match into extra time with his heroics. It was an extraordinary performance, especially considering it was Leaner’s first match of the 2025 season.
Sundowns eventually broke through in the final minute of extra time (the 119th minute of 120), but Leaner deservedly walked off with the Player of the Match award. After the final whistle, opposition goalkeeper and Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams complimented him on his performance.
Just as Renaldo Leaner boosted the image of South African goalkeepers, along came nine-time-capped Zimbabwean shot-stopper Elvis Chipezeze with a sublime performance against Stellenbosch in the weekend’s final Premiership match on Sunday.
Stellenbosch dominated with 73% possession, putting Magesi’s defence under constant threat. However, Chipezeze remained composed as the pressure intensified towards the end. Despite their dominance and a platform provided by 11 corners, Stellenbosch failed to capitalise on their possession.
Sundowns will also remember Chipezeze well—he was instrumental in Magesi’s victory in the Carling Knockout final.
Yusuf Maart of Kaizer Chiefs.
Image: Backpagepix
Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Yusuf Maart faced the wrath of supporters after his seemingly casual approach to a crucial penalty against Golden Arrows on Saturday. Arrows goalkeeper Edward Maova made an easy save as there was no power behind the spot-kick, prompting Chiefs fans to boo Maart vociferously.
Although Maart later scored, it was not enough to avoid defeat. His nonchalance perhaps mirrors the current mood surrounding the team—one of defeatism and frustration, palpable among both players and supporters alike.
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced his dissatisfaction with the lack of support from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) for clubs competing in CAF competitions. His remarks highlight a growing frustration among clubs that feel they do not receive equitable backing when representing South Africa on the international stage.
Greater support from the league would benefit both the clubs and South African football as a whole. However, rather than adjusting local fixtures to accommodate clubs still competing in Africa, the PSL has provided no breathing space and has ignored the logistical challenges faced by players and coaching staff during continental travel.
How often has the PSL allowed domestic fixtures to continue up until the eve of national team training camps, leaving players exhausted and many carrying injuries?
As the Betway Premiership rugby season approaches its climax, the year-end standings remain unpredictable. Several teams are still in contention for top-eight positions, while relegation battles are intensifying.
The top two places, occupied by Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, appear secure. Stellenbosch looks a strong bet for the top eight, while seven teams are vying for the remaining five spots. Chiefs, currently in eighth place with 29 points after 23 games, will be keeping an eye on Chippa United (21 games, 28 points) and Golden Arrows (20 games, 27 points).
At the bottom of the table, Richards Bay, Cape Town City, and SuperSport United are emerging as the prime relegation candidates.