The Betway Premiership delivered another night of pure South African football drama, with Mamelodi Sundowns tightening their grip at the top while Orlando Pirates kept the chase alive. Siwelele FC and Durban City also grabbed crucial victories, giving fans plenty to cheer about as the season heats up.
Sundowns Grind Out A Win To Stay On Top
It wasn’t the most comfortable night for Mamelodi Sundowns at Loftus Versfeld, but champions find a way—and the Brazilians did just that. A single strike from substitute Arthur Sales secured a 1-0 win over a stubborn TS Galaxy side and stretched their lead at the summit of the Betway Premiership table.
In true Sundowns fashion, the match was a balance of flair and frustration. Peter Shalulile came close early on, while Ronwen Williams reminded everyone why he’s South Africa’s number one with several sharp saves to keep Galaxy out.
Coach Miguel Cardoso’s bench made all the difference. Iqraam Rayners and Sales linked up brilliantly for the decisive moment in the 61st minute, with the latter finishing calmly to seal the deal.
With this result, Masandawana remain three points ahead of both Soweto giants—Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs. The gap might be tight, but the champions’ rhythm remains unmatched.
Pirates March Back To Second With Mbuthuma Brilliance
Source: Orlando Pirates on X
The Orlando Stadium was rocking as Orlando Pirates powered past Golden Arrows 3-1 to climb back into second place. The Buccaneers extended their unbeaten run to eight matches, inspired by a super-sub performance from Yanela Mbuthuma, who netted a brace to seal the win.
Bucs started with intent, forcing an own goal after relentless pressure from Nkosikhona Ndaba’s left flank. Arrows threatened to spoil the party when Thokozani Khumalo equalised midway through the second half, but Pirates responded immediately—Mbuthuma stepping up with two well-taken goals to send the home fans into a frenzy.
The timing couldn’t be better, as Pirates now shift their focus to Saturday’s Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Richards Bay before the international break.
Siwelele’s Resurgence Continues With Confident Win
Source: Siwelele FC on X
There’s a new energy brewing in Bloemfontein. Siwelele FC secured back-to-back victories after beating Stellenbosch FC 2-0 at Athlone Stadium. Early goals from Tebogo Potsane and Siviwe Magidigidi ensured the Free State side moved up to 10th on the log—proof that their revival is gaining serious traction.
The chemistry between Potsane and Magidigidi was electric, with both players scoring and assisting each other. It was vintage Siwelele—quick, creative, and confident. Fans on social media celebrated the team’s “classic Celtic spirit” returning after years of inconsistency.
Durban City Find Their Groove Again
Source: Durban City FC on X
Down in KwaZulu-Natal, Durban City snapped a three-match losing streak with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Marumo Gallants at Chatsworth Stadium. Haashim Domingo’s composed finish in the 79th minute was enough to give Gavin Hunt’s men their fourth victory of the season.
The match was a grind, with both sides struggling to find rhythm early on. But when it mattered most, City showed composure and control—qualities they’ve often lacked in recent weeks. The result lifts them into the top eight, a much-needed morale boost heading into the break.
What’s Next For The Betway Premiership?
As the league heads into a brief international pause, all eyes are on whether Pirates and Chiefs can close the gap on the seemingly unstoppable Sundowns. Siwelele’s revival adds fresh excitement to the mid-table race, while Durban City’s resilience signals they’re not just here to survive—they’re here to compete.
For now, Masandawana’s dominance continues, but in South African football, anything can change in a week—and fans across the country are loving every unpredictable minute.
Source: SABC Sport
Featured Image Source: Downs Fans Online
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