Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns began their Betway Premiership campaigns with victories in the opening midweek fixtures of South Africa’s 2024-25 top flight. Both teams demonstrated their intent to dominate the league this season, delivering performances that underline their championship aspirations.
Mamelodi Sundowns, who had a stuttering start to their domestic season after being knocked out of the MTN8 by Stellenbosch FC, showcased their title credentials with a 2-0 win over local rivals SuperSport United at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday.
The Brazilians broke the deadlock midway through the second half, with new signing Iqraam Rayners finding the back of the net.
Lucas Ribeiro added a second, securing three points and signaling that Sundowns remain strong contenders for the league title.
Wednesday’s action saw Orlando Pirates, widely regarded as the team most likely to challenge Sundowns for the championship, clinch a dramatic 2-1 victory over Chippa United at Orlando Stadium.
The match began with a surprise lead for Chippa, as former Pirates star Andile Jali scored midway through the first half.
However, the Buccaneers were quick to respond. Tshegofatso Mabasa converted a penalty in first-half injury time to bring the hosts level.
Just when it seemed the match would end in a draw, Monnapule Saleng struck in the second minute of injury time to hand Pirates a thrilling win, keeping the Soweto giants’ hopes high for the season ahead.
In other midweek fixtures, Sekhukhune United emerged victorious in their Limpopo derby against newly-promoted Magesi FC.
The match, held at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, was decided by a debut goal from Andy Boyeli, giving Sekhukhune a 1-0 win.
Meanwhile, Golden Arrows pulled off an unexpected 2-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium.
Second-half goals from Siyanda Mthanti and Lungelo Nguse secured the win for Abafana Bes’thende, marking a positive start to their league campaign.
The Betway Premiership will continue over the weekend with four matches scheduled for Saturday, 21 September.
The fixtures include Golden Arrows hosting Marumo Gallants, Magesi FC facing Polokwane City, SuperSport United taking on Royal AM, and Chippa United battling Richards Bay.
Betway Premiership midweek results:
Tuesday, 17 September
- Mamelodi Sundowns 2-0 SuperSport United
Wednesday, 18 September
- Orlando Pirates 2-1 Chippa United
- Stellenbosch FC 0-2 Golden Arrows
- Sekhukhune United 1-0 Magesi FC
These results set an intriguing tone for the season, with both Sundowns and Pirates sending an early message to the rest of the league about their championship ambitions.
