Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates to meet in delayed DStv Diski Challenge opener

The reserve sides of Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates will face one another on the opening weekend of the delayed DStv Diski Challenge season, with the Soweto derby offering more than just three points.

The competition traditionally begins with a series of regional derbies, but the 2026/27 campaign will start with a slight alteration to that format.

An initial fixture list shows that the season will get under way on 26 September with five matches.

Chippa United will host Stellenbosch FC at UJ AW Muller Stadium, while Siwelele FC take on Sekhukhune United at UJ Soweto Campus.

The other fixtures that day are Durban City FC against Mamelodi Sundowns at Princess Magogo Stadium, Kruger United versus Marumo Gallants at KaNyamazane Stadium, and AmaZulu FC’s meeting with Golden Arrows, also at Princess Magogo Stadium.

The first round will be completed by three matches on 27 September.

TS Galaxy will play Polokwane City FC at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium, while Richards Bay FC welcome Milford FC to Princess Magogo Stadium.

The final fixture will see Pirates take on Chiefs at the same stadium, which will also host the meeting between Richards Bay FC and Milford FC.

The delayed start has prompted attention across the competition, but Kruger United team manager Elasto Kapowezha said his club is confident about its preparations and eager to test its players against some of the country’s leading young talents.

“We look forward to observing our young team, assembled by head coach Lizo Mjempu. We have played friendly matches across the province in preparation for the season,” he told KickOff.

“Our goal is to establish ourselves as a club committed to developing young players.”