5 Lessons from Betway Premiership Opener: Sekhukhune Stun Pirates, Gallants’ Heroics
- Sekhukhune United stunned Orlando Pirates 1-0 in Soweto, setting the tone for a competitive Betway Premiership season
- Marumo Gallants showed remarkable resilience, winning 2-1 with 10 men against Richards Bay in stoppage time
- Briefly News had an exclusive interview with football pundit Mandla Biyela, offering expert insights on the exciting start to the Betway Premiership season
The 2025/26 Betway Premiership season burst into life on Saturday with thrilling action, late winners, and standout performances across the board.
From Sekhukhune United’s statement win over Orlando Pirates to the resilience shown by newly promoted sides, the opening day offered plenty to talk about.
Briefly News caught up exclusively with respected football pundit Mandla Biyela to get his expert take on the key moments and what they reveal about the teams’ prospects this season. Here are the five lessons we learnt from a captivating first round of fixtures.
Sekhukhune show early intent by sinking Pirates in Soweto
Sekhukhune United’s pursuit of a 50-point Betway Premiership season could hardly have started better, with Babina Noko securing a 1-0 victory over Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium.
A disciplined defensive display, coupled with a moment of composure from Siphesihle Mkhize in the 48th minute, was enough to silence the Buccaneers. Pirates had their moments, twice hitting the woodwork, but wasteful finishing proved costly.
PAY ATTENTION: Briefly News is now on YouTube! Check out our interviews on Briefly TV Life now!
Football pundit Mandla Biyela summed it up:
“This was a statement of intent from Sekhukhune. They were organised, patient, and ruthless when it mattered. If they keep this up, the so-called big teams will have a problem.”
Gallants prove resilience with 10-man heroics
Marumo Gallants showed grit and belief in their 2-1 victory over Richards Bay, snatching the win in stoppage time despite playing more than 50 minutes with 10 men.
Bheki Mabuza’s thunderous opener set the tone early, but captain Edgar Manaka’s first-half red card threatened to derail their momentum. Richards Bay levelled through Lundi Mahala in the 55th minute and looked the likelier side to win, but Simo Mbhele’s late strike punished a costly error from goalkeeper Jamal Salim.
“This is the type of fight that defines a team’s character,” said Biyela.
“Going down to 10 men away from home and still finding a winner tells me Gallants will be a handful this season.”
Maduka’s Magesi start steady with resilient draw in Polokwane
John Maduka’s first game in charge of Magesi ended in a goalless draw away at Polokwane City, showing early signs of stability for the newly promoted side.
Though Magesi came under heavy pressure in the first half, goalkeeper Mbali Tshabalala stood tall with key saves to keep the hosts at bay. Both sides had moments to break the deadlock, including a goalframe strike from Bonginkosi Dlamini for Polokwane.
Biyela commented,
“For a new coach and a team often underdog, a point on the road is a solid platform. Maduka’s side showed discipline and fight, which will be crucial as the season progresses.”
Sundowns show resilience but drop points against Chilli Boys
Mamelodi Sundowns’ title defence began with a hard-fought 1-1 draw away to Chippa United in Nelson Mandela Bay. Arthur Sales gave Sundowns an early lead, but new signing Khaya Mfecane’s equaliser ensured the points were shared.
Despite dominating possession and creating chances, Sundowns were repeatedly denied by Chippa’s resilient defence and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. The match highlighted the competitive nature of the league, where even giants can be held.
Biyela remarked,
“Sundowns showed why they are champions with their control and patience, but the Chilli Boys’ fight reminded us that no game will be straightforward this season.”
Orbit College show promise despite narrow defeat on debut
Orbit College’s first taste of Betway Premiership football ended in a 1-0 loss to AmaZulu FC, but their spirited performance gives hope for the season ahead.
The match was decided by an unfortunate own goal from goalkeeper Sekhoane Moerane early on, but Orbit battled hard, especially in the final stages, putting pressure on AmaZulu and nearly snatching a point.
Biyela observed,
“For a debut, Orbit’s composure and fight were impressive. They may have lost, but this kind of resilience will earn them respect in the league.”..now add an intro to the story that also incorporates that Briefly News had an exclusive comment with football pundit Mandla Biyela
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
