The wait is almost over for South African football fans! The countdown to the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season is officially underway, with the opening round of fixtures set to deliver action-packed encounters on Saturday, 1 August 2026.
Defending champions Orlando Pirates begin their title defense at home against newly promoted Milford FC, while Kaizer Chiefs travel away to face top-flight newcomers Kruger United in the Saturday night kickoff.
Meanwhile, last season’s runners-up Mamelodi Sundowns kick off their quest to reclaim the throne at home against Marumo Gallants.
Opening Weekend Fixtures Schedule
Saturday, 1 August 2026
- Orlando Pirates vs Milford FC — 15:30
- Golden Arrows vs Chippa United — 15:30
- Stellenbosch FC vs AmaZulu FC — 15:30
- Mamelodi Sundowns vs Marumo Gallants — 18:00
- Sekhukhune United vs Durban City — 18:00
- Kruger United vs Kaizer Chiefs — 20:15
Sunday, 2 August 2026
- Richards Bay vs Polokwane City — 15:30
- Siwelele FC vs TS Galaxy — 18:00
3 Big Storylines to Watch Opening Weekend
- The Fernando Da Cruz Era Begins: All eyes will be on Kaizer Chiefs as head coach Fernando Da Cruz oversees his first official league match against promoted Kruger United following a busy off-season rebuild.
- Title Defense for the Bucs: Orlando Pirates step into the season as reigning champions, looking for a strong opening statement at Orlando Stadium against Milford FC.
- Coaching Mastermind Clash: Sekhukhune United’s match-up against Durban City features a compelling tactical battle between Durban City’s new coach Khalil Ben Youssef and his former Kaizer Chiefs co-coach, Cedric Kaze.
With the MTN8 kicking off just a week later, teams will be aiming for maximum points right out of the gate in what promises to be a thrilling campaign
