TALKING POINTS | Siwelele and Durban City stun on debut as Betway Premiership giants falter

The new Betway Premiership season kicked off with a bang as debutants Siwelele FC and Durban City showcased their potential by securing victories against seasoned opponents.

Their results signalled a shift in the competitive landscape, with PSL giants Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates faltering out of the starting blocks. The underdogs, buoyed by the excitement of their first top-flight outings, seized the chance to make a statement in front of expectant crowds.

For both Siwelele and Durban City, the wins are a testament to the work put in during their transition to the elite ranks of Premiership football. But it was Siwelele’s emphatic 3-1 win over Lamontville Golden Arrows that stole the weekend’s headlines.

Siwelele FC step into the spotlight with fan power

In a defining moment for Bloemfontein, the city finally has its team back. Fans flocked to the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium for the home opener against Golden Arrows, with “sold out” signs going up by midweek. The electric atmosphere of a full house brought back the footballing traditions the city had missed, with Bloemfontein’s heart beating to the rhythm of the game once again.

Durban City celebrate debut with a triumph and clean sheet

Durban City showed defensive steel and tactical discipline to claim an impressive 2-0 win over TS Galaxy at the Mbombela Stadium on Sunday. Their backline nullified Galaxy’s threat, ensuring goalkeeper Darren Keet — formerly of Cape Town City — had little to do. This assured display will serve as a vital foundation for the club’s Premiership campaign.

Cardoso calls for patience after Sundowns stumble

Defending champions Sundowns were held to a surprise 1-1 draw at Chippa United. Coach Miguel Cardoso urged patience, emphasising the season is a marathon. Missing key players Khuliso Mudau and Lucas Ribeiro — both absent amid transfer talks — the Brazilians lacked their usual cutting edge.

Nwabali inspires Chippa’s resolute defence

Chippa United’s Nigerian international goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was instrumental in holding Sundowns at bay. Fresh from a 4-0 MTN8 quarter-final win over Richards Bay, Sundowns were frustrated by Chippa’s organisation and spirit under new coach Sinethemba Badela, leaving the hosts with a valuable opening-day point.

Chiefs upstage Gauteng rivals

Kaizer Chiefs opened with a victory while Gauteng rivals Sundowns and Pirates dropped points. After a shaky first half against a 10-man Stellenbosch, Chiefs regrouped to secure the win, fuelling optimism for a revival in fortunes and delighting fans with glimpses of their rich football heritage.