Exciting PSL matches take centre stage before the international break
Exciting Betway Premiership matches highlight the weekend before the international break, with Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns vying for the top spot, while Orlando Pirates aim to recover from a slow start. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Media
In what has been an intriguing start to the new Betway Premiership season, the final push this weekend, before the international break, could set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
Before the new season began, there was renewed hope that the Soweto Giants could mount a challenge for the title after Mamelodi Sundowns won their eighth league title in a row earlier this year.
The Soweto Giants in question were thought to be Orlando Pirates, but so far it seems to be Kaizer Chiefs.
Chiefs have won three of their four games so far, and the other was a draw in their most recent outing against the mighty Sundowns.
Chiefs and Sundowns Battle for Top Spot in League Standings
Their exploits have seen Chiefs occupy second on the log, behind only Sekhukhune United on goal difference as both sides have 10 points.
Despite a frustrating start for Sundowns with two wins and as many draws, they are third at just two points off the top.
Having been involved in the FIFA Club World Cup, Sundowns have been slow to get going in the new season. However, given their squad depth and quality, it would be foolish not to see Sundowns as heavy favourites to win the league yet again.
Weekend Football Fixtures: Sundowns vs Stellenbosch, Chiefs vs Golden Arrows, Pirates vs Chippa United
Looking ahead to this weekend, Sundowns will take on Stellenbosch FC on their home turf on Saturday. Stellies have made a decidedly poor start with two losses, a draw, and a win to find themselves 11th on the table. It’s a far cry from their third-place finish last season, but at Athlone Stadium, the pressure could not be more intense.
Also on Saturday, Chiefs will take on Golden Arrows at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban in what could be vital for Amakhosi to maintain their spot near the summit of the log before the break.
In contrast, Pirates will travel to Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to take on Chippa United on Sunday. The Buccaneers will be desperate not to drop any more points having already lost two games so far.