No time to breathe as Betway Premiership launches into high gear

As teams gear up for the new Betway Premiership season, they do so knowing the opening stretch offers no breathing room. After this weekend’s curtain-raisers, clubs will dive straight into midweek fixtures, signalling a demanding start to a campaign that promises drama, intensity, and little respite.

The battle for supremacy begins immediately, with players needing to adapt quickly to the pace and physical demands of the schedule. For title hopefuls, every point will count — and early momentum could be decisive.

Among those looking to hit the ground running are Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates. Both face testing openers as they begin their respective campaigns under the watchful eye of expectant fans.

Pirates host Sekhukhune United on Saturday at the iconic Orlando Stadium — a venue that has already been buzzing with energy this season. Last weekend, the ground was packed to capacity for the visit of Polokwane City, showcasing the unwavering support of 'The Ghost'.

A similar turnout is expected this time, especially with both sides riding high after booking their places in the MTN8 semi-finals.

On Sunday, August 10, Chiefs travel to the picturesque Cape Town Stadium to face Stellenbosch FC. While the hosts will be buoyed by home support, the Glamour Boys will look to exploit the pressure on the home side as they seek a crucial opening-day victory. The fixture has grown in intensity over recent seasons, and another fiercely contested encounter is expected.

A congested calendar until December 21

The Premiership will run at full tilt until 21 December, with clubs navigating a packed schedule including MTN8 ties, the return of the Carling Knockout Cup, CAF inter-club competitions, and breaks for international duty.

Fifa international windows will temporarily halt domestic play as national teams — including Bafana Bafana — focus on World Cup qualifiers and friendlies. Further disruption looms in December, when the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco (December 21 to January 18), posing selection headaches for clubs likely to lose key players during a critical phase of the season.

The coaching carousel spins — slightly

Unusually for South African football, the coaching merry-go-round has taken a relatively subdued turn this off-season, with a mix of fresh and familiar faces settling into new roles.

All eyes will be on Lehlohonolo Seema as he leads newly promoted Siwelele FC. Renowned for his tactical clarity and man-management skills, Seema will be keen to establish top-flight credibility early.

Veteran tactician Gavin Hunt takes over at Durban City, bringing with him the experience of transforming struggling sides into serious contenders.

Elsewhere, John Maduka has been tasked with steadying the ship at Magesi FC, a club eager to establish itself among the elite. His calm authority and emphasis on structure will be key.

Marumo Gallants have placed their trust in Frenchman Alexandre Lafitte, who arrives with a reputation for progressive football shaped by his experiences abroad.

At Chippa United, Sinethemba Badela takes the reins with a clear brief — to build team cohesion and push the Eastern Cape club towards greater stability and competitiveness.

One of the most intriguing appointments is that of Moroccan former international Abdeslam Ouaddou, who steps into the hot seat at Orlando Pirates. While the pressure will be immense, Ouaddou has the pedigree and temperament to marshal a squad brimming with quality.

As these tacticians begin to stamp their authority, and as the Premiership takes off at breakneck speed, fans can expect a season packed with unpredictability, emerging stars, and battles both on and off the pitch.