The much-anticipated return of top-flight South African football kicked off this weekend as the Betway Premiership made a thrilling start. Supporters were buzzing with excitement as their favorite teams took to the pitch after a long off-season, setting the tone for an action-packed campaign ahead. The opening weekend did not disappoint, delivering a mix of intense showdowns, surprising upsets, and commanding victories. With some clubs already celebrating early wins and others licking their wounds from tough losses, it’s clear that this season will be filled with drama, passion, and fierce competition as teams vie for supremacy.

The 2024-25 Betway Premiership campaign kicked off in thrilling fashion, with opening-day victories for Kaizer Chiefs and Polokwane City. Meanwhile, Royal AM and Cape Town City couldn’t be separated, settling for a hard-fought draw. However, the real drama unfolded later in the evening at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, where Polokwane City staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 win against AmaZulu. The match capped off an exciting start to the season, leaving fans eager for more action.

Polokwane City’s victory over AmaZulu will be remembered for its late-game drama. After a goal from Etioa Ighodaro and an equalizer by Bulelani Nikani, the game seemed destined for a draw. However, AmaZulu goalkeeper Veli Mothwa, who had recently made an error in a national team fixture, was at fault again. His blunder allowed Tholo Matuludi to score a stoppage-time winner, snatching all three points for the Rise and Shine.

The night clash at the old Peter Mokaba Stadium showcased Polokwane City’s resilience, coming from behind to beat AmaZulu. Both sides traded goals, with Ighodaro and Nikani finding the net to make it 1-1. Just when it seemed the spoils would be shared, a costly mistake by AmaZulu’s goalkeeper Mothwa in the dying moments handed Polokwane a dramatic victory, leaving AmaZulu to rue missed opportunities.

Amakhosi get their confidence up 

Kaizer Chiefs also had reason to celebrate as their new coach, Nasreddine Nabi, enjoyed a successful debut. The Soweto giants were put to the test by Marumo Gallants in their match at the Free State Stadium. Chiefs fell behind early but showed great character, coming from a goal down to secure a 2-1 victory over their 10-man opponents, signaling a promising start to their campaign.

The match saw Sekela Sithole give Marumo Gallants an early lead, only for Amakhosi to respond swiftly. Mduduzi Shabalala leveled the score before halftime, setting the stage for an intense second half. Despite Marumo being reduced to 10 men, Kaizer Chiefs capitalized on their advantage and sealed the win, marking a positive beginning to Nabi’s tenure.

Nasreddine Nabi has made an impressive start as the Kaizer Chiefs coach, becoming the first coach since Stuart Baxter in 2012 to win his debut league game at the club. His leadership in securing a victory in the season opener has not only excited fans but also set a positive tone for what could be a promising campaign. Chiefs supporters are hopeful that Nabi’s tactical approach will bring consistency and success to the club, as they look to build on this strong start and aim for a return to glory.

Kaizer Chiefs fans are buzzing with excitement after the team secured their first win of the season, marking a triumphant start to the campaign. This victory holds special significance as it is Chiefs’ first opening match win since the 2019-20 season, bringing a renewed sense of optimism to the supporters. After several seasons of challenges, the Amakhosi faithful are hopeful that this win signals a turning point and a return to the club’s winning ways. Fans are looking forward to what promises to be an exciting season ahead for the Glamour Boys. 

 On Sunday, Richards Bay secured their first-ever victory over TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership, marking a significant moment for the team. After narrowly escaping relegation last season by surviving the promotion/relegation playoffs, this win could be the boost they need for a successful new campaign. The match was decided by a goal from defender Keegan Allan, who scored in the 22nd minute during his debut for Richards Bay, making the critical difference between the two teams.

This evening the attention turns to Mamaelodi Sundowns as they take on SuperSport United in the Tshwane Derby. Tomorrow, 18 September 2024 – Orlando Pirates will welcome Chippa United at Orlando Stadium, Stellenbosch FC host Golden Arrows and Sekhukhune United will meet the newcomers to the topflight, Magesi FC. 

Overall, the first weekend of the Betway Premiership set the stage for an exciting season, with dramatic comebacks, tactical battles, and last-minute winners already thrilling fans. With several teams off to a flying start and others eager to bounce back, the 2024-25 season promises to be full of twists and turns.